Infeed

Infeed is the entry or penetration of a workpiece or tool into a machining or handling system. In metalworking, infeed most commonly refers to the depth of cut or the amount of material removed in a single pass, but in automation it can describe the entry of parts into a machine.

In turning and milling, infeed denotes the axial movement of the tool into the workpiece per pass or per revolution, i.e., the reduction of material along the axis of the piece. In turning, axial feed describes the progression of the tool along the workpiece; in milling, infeed is the rate at which the cutting edge advances into the workpiece. In grinding, the infeed is the axial advance of the grinding wheel toward the workpiece, controlling the depth of cut each pass.

Infeed in automation and material handling refers to the entry of parts into a processing station, often supplied by a feeder, hopper, or conveyor. The infeed system must be coordinated with machine cycles to maintain continuous operation and to avoid jams, misfeeds, or phase mismatches with downstream processes.

Measurement and trade-offs: infeed is typically specified as a depth of cut or per-pass distance, though it can also be expressed as a feed rate (for example, mm per revolution or mm per minute). A larger infeed increases material removal and productivity but raises cutting forces, heat generation, and tool wear, which can affect surface finish and tolerances. Proper selection depends on material, tool geometry, machine rigidity, lubrication or coolant, and setup.