Metric Thread Mills Speeds & Feeds Center

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This resource provides field-tested starting parameters for Minnexon Solid Carbide Metric Thread Mills. We designed this data to help engineers who are new to thread milling achieve reliable results immediately.

Note for Experts: All parameters are conservative and aimed at maximizing tool life and stability. Once you are familiar with your machine’s rigidity and the material’s behavior, you can optimize by slightly increasing the Vc (Cutting Speed) and fz (Feed per Tooth) for higher productivity.

ItemSteelAluminumNotes
Thread SpecM16 × 2.0M16 × 2.0Internal thread
ToolØ16 Full Profile Thread MillØ16 Full Profile Thread MillSolid carbide
Spindle Speed (rpm)3400 – 36003500 – 3800Aluminum only slightly higher
Feed Rate (mm/min)140 – 160180 – 200Typical: 150 / 200
Radial Depth of Cut (mm)0.15 – 0.200.20 – 0.30Aluminum allows heavier cut
Axial Passes3 – 42 – 3Bottom → Top
Cutting DirectionClimb millingClimb millingRecommended
Milling StrategyHelical interpolationHelical interpolationCNC
Machining DirectionBottom → TopBottom → TopChip evacuation
CoolantFlood coolantAir blast / MQLChip control
Finishing Allowance (mm)0.05 – 0.10.03 – 0.05Final pass
ItemParameter (Steel)Notes
Thread SpecM18 × 2.5Internal thread
ToolØ14 Full Profile Thread MillSolid carbide
Workpiece MaterialSteele.g. C45 / 40Cr
Spindle Speed3800 rpmBased on tool diameter
Feed Rate150 – 200 mm/minStart low, increase if stable
Radial Depth of Cut0.15 – 0.20 mmPer pass
Axial Passes3 – 4 passesLayered milling
Cutting DirectionClimb millingRecommended
Milling StrategyHelical interpolationCNC thread milling
Machining DirectionBottom → TopBetter chip evacuation
CoolantFlood coolant / EmulsionImprove tool life
Finishing Allowance0.05 – 0.1 mmFinal finishing pass