In milling, what does the term "feed per tooth" refer to?

The term "feed per tooth" specifically refers to the distance that an individual cutting edge of a milling tool advances during one complete revolution of the spindle. This measurement is crucial in milling operations as it directly affects the cutting efficiency, tool wear, and surface finish of the machined part. By understanding and calculating the feed per tooth, operators can optimize the machining process to ensure that the tool engages the material appropriately without causing excess wear or damaging the part being machined.

The concept relates to how materials are removed during the milling process, emphasizing the importance of tool geometry, cutting speed, and feed rate. Choosing the correct feed per tooth is essential for achieving desired performance and quality in CNC machining tasks.