Originally Posted by
SCzEngrgGroup
I think you're looking at it backwards. You don't decide the RPM and feed you want to use, then see what depth/width you can use. You look at the material you want to remove, and decide what the best depth/width are, then calculate RPM and feed. Where HSMAdvisor really shines is if you're able to HSM machining, and take advantage of chip thinning, and other factors, to drastically increase your throughput. As an example, my typical roughing cut in 6061 uses a 1/2" HSS 2-flute, running at 5900 RPM, 110 IPM. the "old school" way would have me running under 3000RPM, and under 30 IPM. At the higher speeds, I get higher MRR, less stress on the machine, better finish, and longer tool life. But, you have to have appropriate toolpaths, or you'll just break tools left and right.
For the record, HSMAdvisor calculates based on many equations, and the authors extensive experience as a machinist. NOBODY gets optimal results without factoring in experience, and no tool will give you optimal values for YOUR tools, and YOUR machine. That comes only from letting the tool get you close, then doing test cuts to see where the limits are for your particular machine, tools, and setups. You'll never get optimal results until you have enough experience to know how to "read" the sound and feel of the machine, and the cutting results. No software can replace that knowledge.
Regards,
Ray L.