The cutting speed (in surface feet per minute) is determined by?

The cutting speed, measured in surface feet per minute, is fundamentally determined by the type of material being machined. Different materials have distinct properties, such as hardness and abrasiveness, which influence the optimal cutting speed for efficient machining. For instance, softer materials can typically be machined at higher speeds compared to harder materials, which may require slower speeds to avoid excessive wear on the cutting tool or to prevent overheating.

When selecting the correct cutting speed, machinists often refer to charts or tables that specify recommended speeds for various materials, taking into account the material's composition and characteristics. This ensures effective machining while enhancing tool life and maintaining the quality of the finished part.

Other factors, such as the machine size, rigidity of workholding devices, and the number of cutting edges on the tool, can influence aspects like stability, vibration, and productivity, but they do not directly define the cutting speed in the same manner as the material being worked on.