What does 'mm/min' indicate in machining?

The term 'mm/min' refers to the metric measurement of millimeters per minute, which is commonly used in machining to denote the feed rate. This measurement indicates the distance that the cutting tool advances or moves forward in a minute during the machining process. A higher feed rate allows for faster production but may impact the quality of the cut depending on the material and tooling used. Understanding this rate is crucial for machinists to optimize their operations and ensure efficient material removal while maintaining the desired surface finish.