Ignoring the feed rate override cost me a whole batch

I was running a job on the mill, and parts kept coming out with bad dimensions. Everyone in the shop said to check the tool offsets, but I knew something else was up. After looking at the program, I saw the feed rate was set too high for the material. I dialed it back by twenty percent, and suddenly the parts were perfect. My lead hand thought I was wasting time, but the proof was in the pieces. Now I always double-check the feeds and speeds before hitting start. It's basic, but so many guys just trust the old settings. Don't be lazy, review your code every time.

2 comments

2 Comments

olivia_mitchell451mo ago

Feed rates aren't just numbers, they shift with tool wear and different metal lots. Jobs that ran perfect can fail if the new bar stock is even a bit tougher. Building that check into your routine prevents surprises and saves cash.

wrenhill1mo ago

No way, your lead hand actually gave you grief for fixing the program? That's wild! Seeing the parts come out perfect should've been all the proof needed. It's scary how many people just run old programs without a second thought. Your story shows exactly why that's such a risky habit. What happens if the next batch is a different material grade?