Titanium Feeds & Speeds Chart
Critical parameters for Ti-6Al-4V and Grade 2. Low speed, high feed, and strict heat management.
Don't Guess with Titanium
Titanium is unforgiving. A 10% increase in SFM can reduce tool life by 50%. Use our calculator for clear, safe limits.
Ti-6Al-4V (Grade 5)
The aerospace standard. Poor thermal conductivity means heat stays in the tool. REQUIRES AlTiN coating.
| Operation | Start SFM | Max SFM | Chip Load (1/2" End Mill) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Heavy Roughing (Slot) | 120 | 160 | 0.002" - 0.003" |
| Dynamic Milling (HEM) | 250 | 400* | 0.004" - 0.007" (RCTF) |
| Finishing (Radial < 5%) | 180 | 250 | 0.001" - 0.002" |
| Drilling (Carbide) | 50 | 80 | 0.003" - 0.006" |
*HEM speeds require proper Radial Chip Thinning calculations.
Titanium Grade 2 (Pure)
Softer and gummier than Grade 5. More prone to built-up edge. Can run slightly faster but watch for gummy chips.
| Operation | Start SFM | Max SFM | Chip Load (1/2" End Mill) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Roughing | 160 | 220 | 0.003" - 0.005" |
| Finishing | 200 | 300 | 0.002" - 0.004" |
Heat Management
Titanium has terrible thermal conductivity. The heat generated does not go into the chip; it goes 80% into the tool and 20% into the part.
Strategy:
- AlTiN Coating: Essential. Handles high heat and insulates carbide.
- Dynamic Milling (HEM): Use small radial cut (5-10%) to allow flute cooling time.
- High Pressure Coolant: Required to blast chips out and prevent recutting.
Drilling Danger Zone
Titanium work hardens instantly if you rub.
NEVER DWELL.
If the drill stops advancing while contacting material, the hole bottom will harden to 60+ HRC. Your next drill will burn instantly.
Retract fully every peck to clear chips and cool the tip.