Final answer:
The maximum material removal in a single pass on a mill or lathe varies depending on material hardness, cutting tool, machine's rigidity, and cutting conditions. There is no fixed number as it is adjusted based on manufacturer guidelines, machinist experience, and specific job circumstances.
Step-by-step explanation:
The maximum allowable material that can be removed in a single pass on a mill or lathe is not a fixed number; it varies based on several factors. One important aspect to consider is the material hardness; harder materials generally allow for less material to be removed in each pass. Additionally, the operation's success depends on the cutting tool used, the machine's rigidity, the stability of the workpiece setup, and cutting conditions such as speed, feed, and depth of cut.
Manufacturers provide guidelines for specific materials and tools, which include recommended cutting speeds and feeds. These guidelines can be adjusted based on the machinist's experience and the specifics of the workpiece and machine. As a rule of thumb, a lighter cut at a higher speed may result in a better surface finish and longer tool life, while a heavier cut can increase production rate but may wear the tool faster and reduce surface finish.