Turning metal requires more than just the right machine – it demands experience, an understanding of the material’s behavior, and the correct choice of tools. At Matenco, we have been working with turning for over 40 years, and our strength lies in customizing each component according to the customer’s needs – whether it involves copper, aluminum, steel, or more difficult-to-machine alloys.
Our CNC-controlled machinery is set up for both small and medium-sized production runs and can handle complex geometries and tight tolerances. We manage the entire process – from raw material to finished part – and can also offer grinding, polishing, and other post-processing services.
Turning metal is never a one-size-fits-all process. Each material behaves differently in the lathe – and the correct adaptation of tooling, cutting data, and method is crucial for success.
Aluminum is easy to machine but requires high cutting speeds and sharp edges to avoid burrs. Without the right chip breaker, it produces long chips.
Stainless steel is tough, causes high tool wear, and carries a risk of heat buildup. It requires a stable machine, coated carbide tools, and high-pressure cooling.
Copper is soft but thermally sensitive. There is a risk of built-up edge and poor surface finish if the tool is not polished. It requires careful cooling and low cutting forces.
Hardest to Turn
Easiest to Turn
Brass (alloyed, leaded)
Stainless steel (AISI 316)
Aluminum (6000 series)
Titanium and nickel alloys
Free-cutting steel (11SMnPb30)
Hardened steel (>50 HRC)
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Below is a practical overview of cutting speeds, feeds, tools, and other key parameters for turning metal – based on our own experience and established industry recommendations:
Cutting speed (vc): 300–600 m/min
Feed (f): 0.15–0.4 mm/rev
Depth of cut (ap): 1–4 mm
Tool: Carbide with positive geometry, polished cutting edge
Cooling: Air or light oil mist – coolant can lead to chip adhesion
Tips: Avoid tools with low friction coefficient – use sharp edges to minimize burrs
Cutting speed (vc): 300–600 m/min
Feed (f): 0.15–0.4 mm/rev
Depth of cut (ap): 1–4 mm
Tool: Carbide with positive geometry, polished cutting edge
Cooling: Air or light oil mist – coolant can lead to chip adhesion
Tips: Avoid tools with low friction coefficient – use sharp edges to minimize burrs
Cutting speed (vc): 300–600 m/min
Feed (f): 0.15–0.4 mm/rev
Depth of cut (ap): 1–4 mm
Tool: Carbide with positive geometry, polished cutting edge
Cooling: Air or light oil mist – coolant can lead to chip adhesion
Tips: Avoid tools with low friction coefficient – use sharp edges to minimize burrs
Cutting speed: 150–250 m/min
Feed: 0.1–0.35 mm/rev
Depth of cut: 1–4 mm
Tool: Carbide with TiN or TiCN coating
Cooling: Emulsion or high-pressure
Tips: Avoid high entry angles during deep turning – risk of vibration
Cutting speed: 200–400 m/min
Feed: 0.1–0.3 mm/rev
Depth of cut: 0.5–2 mm
Tool: Polished carbide or PCD (polycrystalline diamond)
Cooling: Dry or light mist
Tips: Highly thermally sensitive – cooling must be carefully controlled
We know your production cannot afford tool breakage, rework, or delays. That is why we combine traditional craftsmanship with modern methods, ensuring that you receive precision-turned components that meet your requirements – every time.
Do you have a drawing in hand? Or a challenge you’d like to discuss? We’d love to listen. Contact us today for a free consultation – and we’ll ensure you get the right tools, method, and results.
Work area
Ø360x600
Spindle speed
6000
Tool locations
15
Control system
Fanuc
Type
Y-axis turning
Work area
Ø210x50000
Spindle speed
6000
Tool locations
15
Control system
Fanuc
Type
Y-axis turning
Work area
Ø375x760
Spindle speed
6000
Tool locations
12/24
Control system
Fanuc
Type
Y-axis turning
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