[tigge_nz]

I have a 4mm diameter 2 flute solid carbide endmill that I intend to cut MDF with. I'm up to the point where I need to determine feed rate and spindle rpm and was wondering if someone could kindly check my workings so to speak with what I've roughed out.

From this onsrud table (http://www.onsrud.com/files/pdf/2012...ools%20MDF.pdf)

Chip load of around 0.005 (for a 5/32 diameter bit - 4mm) from the table

And using the formula: feed rate IPM = RPM x cutting edges x chip load

So for 16,000 RPM and a 2 flute up cutter, that works out to 160 IPM or 2.67 IPS

Does 2.67 IPS sound about right?

I'm just worried I'll break the bit or ruin it with too much heat, kind of a newbie question I'm trying to get my head around.

[ger21]

I'd probably start at 200ipm @ 16,000 rpm. Just limit your depth of cut to 4-5mm per pass.

[tigge_nz]

Awesome thanks for confirming, I tried it out at 4000rpm, 2x dia depth - 8mm, and 30 ipm (according to the formula), and it worked a treat. Nice large warm chips coming out, the bit was still a little too warm, so I might up it a little more as you've suggested. Thanks for the help.