Machining data
A2 Tool Steel speeds & feeds
Air-hardening tool steel — at 41–50 HRc use a die/mold geometry and light radial engagement. Below are RobbJack's tested starting parameters by diameter — then open the calculator to tune them to your exact tool, depth of cut, and spindle.
| Diameter | Recommended tool | Flutes | SFM | RPM | Feed (IPM) | Chip load (in) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/8" | HM-402-04 | 4 | 580 | 17,725 | 49.6 | 0.0007 |
| 3/16" | HM-402-06 | 4 | 580 | 11,817 | 52 | 0.0011 |
| 1/4" | HM-602-08 | 6 | 580 | 8,862 | 74.4 | 0.0014 |
| 3/8" | HM-602-12 | 6 | 580 | 5,908 | 78 | 0.0022 |
| 1/2" | HM-602-16 | 6 | 580 | 4,431 | 77.1 | 0.0029 |
| 3/4" | HM-802-24 | 8 | 580 | 2,954 | 80.4 | 0.0034 |
Starting parameters for roughing/profiling with a rigid setup — always verify on your machine, tool, and fixturing. Open the calculator to enter your exact depth of cut, spindle RPM/HP, and coating, and to get finishing values and a printable setup sheet.