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SFM Calculator

SFM Calculator | Surface Feet Per Minute for Machining & Cutting Tools

Calculate SFM (Surface Feet per Minute) and RPM for any tool diameter and material using our global SFM calculator.

0.001–100 inches (or mm)
Select unit
1–100,000 RPM
Recommended range
1–5000 SFM
Choose output

Enter values to calculate SFM or RPM.

Master cutting speeds with the SFM calculator.

SFM Formula

SFM = (π × D × RPM) / 12

Imperial

RPM Formula

RPM = (SFM × 12) / (π × D)

From SFM

Metric

SFM = (π × D_mm × RPM) / 304.8

Convert to m/min

SFM = Cutting Speed | RPM = Spindle Speed

SFM Calculator: Global Machining Speed Tool

The most accurate SFM calculator for CNC, lathe, milling, and drilling — supports imperial and metric units with material-specific recommendations.

"Speed kills — but only if it's wrong." — Machinist Wisdom

How the SFM Calculator Works

Our SFM calculator uses standard formulas:

  • SFM = (Ï€ × Diameter × RPM) / 12 (inches)
  • SFM = (Ï€ × D_mm × RPM) / 304.8 (mm → SFM)
  • RPM = (SFM × 12) / (Ï€ × D)
  • Ï€ ≈ 3.14159

Understanding SFM Calculator Results

You get:

  • SFM or RPM in real time
  • Material safety check (Green/Yellow/Red)
  • Recommended RPM range
  • Metric conversion

Why Use This SFM Calculator?

Trusted by machinists worldwide:

  • Imperial & Metric support
  • 8+ material presets
  • Real-time validation
  • Safety warnings
  • Mobile-optimized

Real SFM Calculator Examples

  • 0.5" end mill in Aluminum @ 3000 RPM: → 392 SFM
  • 10 mm drill in Steel @ 800 RPM: → 82 SFM
  • 2" face mill in Cast Iron @ 400 RPM: → 209 SFM
  • 1/4" bit in Wood @ 12000 RPM: → 785 SFM

Recommended SFM by Material

  • Aluminum: 200–1000 SFM
  • Mild Steel: 100–300 SFM
  • Stainless: 80–200 SFM
  • Titanium: 50–150 SFM
  • Plastic: 500–1500 SFM
  • Wood: 1000–3000 SFM

Metric Conversion (SFM to m/min)

1 SFM = 0.3048 m/min | 1 m/min = 3.28084 SFM

Get Started with SFM Calculator

  1. Enter Tool Diameter
  2. Select Unit (in/mm)
  3. Enter RPM or Choose SFM
  4. Select Material
  5. View Instant Result

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