Lead feed rates tab

Use the Lead feed rates page page of the Feeds and Speeds dialog to specify the default Ramp lead in, Lead in, and Lead out feed rates for lead moves as a factor of the cutting feed rate. This enables you to use a slower entry and exit feed rate which reduces the stress on the tool and so increases tool life. It also minimises damage to the part, especially when cutting brittle materials such as graphite.

For example, if you modify the Lead in feed rate factor to 50%, the lead in move will be performed at half the Cutting feed rate. You can specify factors above 100%.

The Ramp lead in references the Plunge feed rate; and the Lead in and Lead out references the Cutting feed rate specified in Cutting feed rates tab. Modifying the factor automatically updates the absolute feed rate value. Similarly, modifying the absolute feed rate value automatically updates the factor.

This page contains the following:

Ramp lead in

The Ramp lead in feed rate controls the speed of the tool when it ramps into the stock.

% — Enter the factor by which the Ramp lead in feed rate is modified.

mm/min — Enter the absolute feed rate of the Ramp lead in move.

Maintain ramp feed rate — Click to maintain the tool speed after the tool ramps into the stock.

Distance — Enter the distance for which the tool speed is maintained.

Lead in

The Lead in feed rate controls the speed of the tool as it approaches the stock, before beginning a cutting move.

% — Enter the factor by which the Lead in feed rate is modified.

mm/min — Enter the absolute feed rate of the Lead in move.

Lead out

The Lead out feed rate controls the speed of the tool after it leaves the stock, at the end of a cutting move.

% — Enter the factor by which the Lead out feed rate is modified.

mm/min or in/min — Enter the absolute feed rate of the Lead out move.