Feed & Speed Calculator for 7075 Aluminum
Higher strength than 6061 means more heat and more cutting force — still an easy material, just not quite as forgiving.
7075-T6 starting ranges
| Tool | Cutting speed (SFM) | Chip load, 1/2" 3-flute (in) |
|---|---|---|
| Carbide, uncoated or ZrN | 600–1200 | 0.004–0.007 |
| HSS | 250–450 | 0.003–0.005 |
Run somewhat below 6061's numbers — 7075's higher strength generates more heat at the same speed and feed.
Why 7075 isn't "just aluminum" the way 6061 is
7075 is roughly twice the tensile strength of 6061, which is exactly why it's the go-to for aerospace and high-stress parts — but that strength means more cutting force and more heat generated per cut, even though it's still far easier to machine than any steel. Treat it as "aluminum, but respect it a bit more" rather than defaulting to 6061 numbers.
It's not weldable, and that changes how it gets machined
Because 7075 can't be welded without losing its heat-treated strength, parts in this material are almost always fully machined from solid rather than fabricated and welded — which means more material removal, longer cycle times, and more reason to actually optimize speeds and feeds rather than run conservative numbers "because it's aluminum."
Chip evacuation still matters, arguably more
The same heat-driven chip-welding risk from 6061 applies here, but 7075's extra cutting force also means more chip volume moving through the flute at the same stepover — flood coolant or a strong air blast and a rigid setup earn their keep more here than on 6061.