Stainless Steel Feeds & Speeds Chart
Critical data for 300-series (303/304/316) and precipitation hardening (17-4PH) stainless steels. Focus on preventing work hardening.
Calculate Exact Parameters
Stainless steel is unforgiving. Use our calculator to get precise RPM and Feed rates based on your specific tool diameter and coating.
300 Series (303, 304, 316)
The most common stainless steels. 303 is free-machining (sulfur added). 304/316 are gummy and work-harden instantly if you rub.
| Material | Operation | SFM (Coated Carbide) | Chip Load (1/2" End Mill) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 303 Stainless | Roughing | 400 - 600 | 0.003" - 0.006" |
| 303 Stainless | Finishing | 600 - 800 | 0.001" - 0.002" |
| 304 / 316 | Roughing | 250 - 450 | 0.0025" - 0.005" |
| 304 / 316 | Finishing | 350 - 550 | 0.001" - 0.002" |
17-4 PH & 400 Series
Magnetic stainless steels. 17-4 PH is widely used in aerospace. Harder than 300 series but often machines cleaner (less gummy).
| Condition | Operation | SFM (Coated Carbide) | Chip Load (1/2" End Mill) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annealed (H900) | Roughing | 200 - 350 | 0.002" - 0.004" |
| Annealed (H900) | Finishing | 300 - 500 | 0.001" - 0.002" |
| 416 / 420 (Free Machining) | General | 350 - 600 | 0.003" - 0.006" |
Coating Selection for Stainless
AlTiN / TiAlN
Color: Dark Grey / Violet
Standard Choice
Excellent heat resistance. Forms aluminum oxide protective layer at high temps.
TiN (Titanium Nitride)
Color: Gold
Acceptable
Okay for general use, but lower heat resistance than AlTiN.
Uncoated
Color: Silver
NOT RECOMMENDED
Stainless generates too much heat. Carbide will degrade rapidly without thermal barrier.
Critical Rule: Don't Let It Rub!
Stainless steel (especially 304/316) work hardens instantly. If your tool dwells, rubs, or takes too light of a cut (less than 0.001"), the surface will become harder than the tool itself.
Solution: Maintain a positive chip load (minimum 0.001" IPT). Don't baby the tool. Enter the cut decisively.