Aluminum Feeds & Speeds Chart
Quick-look reference data for 6061, 7075, and 2024 alloys. Optimized for High Efficiency Milling (HEM) and standard profiling.
Need Exact Numbers?
Charts are great for estimation, but every setup is different. Use our Aluminum-specific calculator for precise RPM, IPM, and MRR.
6061-T6 (General Purpose)
The most common aluminum alloy. Gummy but machines well. Requires high RPM and sharp tools (ZrN or Uncoated).
| Tool Material | Operation | SFM Range | Chip Load (1/2" End Mill) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carbide (Uncoated/ZrN) | Roughing | 1200 - 2500+ | 0.004" - 0.008" |
| Carbide (Uncoated/ZrN) | Finishing | 1500 - 3000+ | 0.001" - 0.003" |
| Carbide (Uncoated/ZrN) | Slotting (100% WOC) | 1000 - 1800 | 0.003" - 0.005" |
| HSS (High Speed Steel) | General Milling | 400 - 800 | 0.002" - 0.004" |
7075-T6 (High Strength / Aerospace)
Harder and stronger than 6061. Chips break better (short chips). Can take slightly higher tooth loads but slightly lower speeds.
| Tool Material | Operation | SFM Range | Chip Load (1/2" End Mill) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Carbide (Uncoated/ZrN) | Roughing | 1000 - 2000 | 0.005" - 0.009" |
| Carbide (Uncoated/ZrN) | Finishing | 1200 - 2500 | 0.001" - 0.003" |
| Carbide (Uncoated/ZrN) | Slotting | 800 - 1500 | 0.003" - 0.006" |
2024 & Cast Aluminum (Mic-6)
2024 (Copper Alloy)
Gummy. Prone to built-up edge (BUE).
| SFM | 800 - 1500 |
| Notes | Use Coolant! |
Cast Al (Mic-6 / A356)
High Silicon content. Abrasive.
| SFM | 1500 - 3000 |
| Tooling | Carbide Only |
Drilling Feeds & Speeds (HSS vs. Carbide)
| Drill Size | HSS RPM (300 SFM) | Carbide RPM (600 SFM) | Feed (IPR) | Peck Cycle |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1/8" (0.125) | 9,100 | 18,300 | 0.002 - 0.004 | Required > 3xD |
| 1/4" (0.250) | 4,500 | 9,100 | 0.004 - 0.008 | Required > 3xD |
| 3/8" (0.375) | 3,000 | 6,100 | 0.006 - 0.010 | Recommended |
| 1/2" (0.500) | 2,200 | 4,500 | 0.008 - 0.012 | Standard |
Coating Guide: What Color Should Your End Mill Be?
ZrN (Zirconium Nitride)
Color: Gold / Pale Yellow
Best for Aluminum
Excellent lubricity, prevents built-up edge.
Uncoated (Polished)
Color: Silver / Shiny
Excellent
Sharpest edge possible. Great for finishing plastics & Al.
AlTiN / TiAlN
Color: Dark Grey / Purple
DO NOT USE
Contains Aluminum. Will chemically bond to material (gall).
A Note on Cooling
Aluminum must be cut with coolant or air blast. Recutting chips is the #1 cause of broken tools in aluminum. If the chips aren't flying, the polished flutes will clog (pack up) instantly, snapping the tool.