What does 'SFM' stand for in machining terminology?

SFM stands for Surface Feet Per Minute, which is a crucial measurement in machining that indicates the speed at which a cutting tool moves across the surface of the workpiece. This measurement helps determine the appropriate cutting speed for various materials and processes, ensuring optimal cutting performance, tool life, and surface finish.

In machining, maintaining the correct SFM is essential for achieving efficient material removal and avoiding excessive wear on the cutting tool. By using SFM, machinists can calculate the spindle speed or feed rate necessary for their specific operations, facilitating better control over the machining process and resulting in higher quality parts.