Choose the bit and operation first
An upcut, downcut, compression, straight, or ball-nose bit does not make the same cut. Define the material, flute count, diameter, and operation before choosing RPM, feed, or depth.
Use chip load as a controlled relationship
Feed rate, RPM, and flute count work together. Start from the tool manufacturer's guidance or a conservative calculation, then examine chips, heat, sound, and edge quality on matching scrap.
Record the full successful setup
Write down the wood species, bit, machine, RPM, feed, plunge, depth of cut, hold-down, and result. That record becomes a shop reference you can trust.
Advanced practice
Make a small test that teaches you something.
You can choose a conservative starting point, change one variable, and save a result you can reuse.
- Use a known bit and matching scrap material.
- Run a labeled test that changes only one variable at a time.
- Inspect edge quality, chips, heat, sound, and hold-down before choosing the next trial.
Related tools & lessons
Common questions
What feeds and speeds should I use for wood CNC work?
Use the bit manufacturer's guidance and a calculator as the starting point, then make a controlled test on matching wood. Machine rigidity, bit geometry, hold-down, and desired finish all matter.
Why does CNC wood cutting burn or fuzz?
Heat, poor chip clearing, a dull bit, unsuitable feed or RPM, grain direction, and weak workholding can all affect the edge. Adjust one variable at a time during a test.
Should I save feeds and speeds by material?
Yes. Record the complete setup, including the bit and machine, so a proven result can be repeated rather than guessed again.