Formulas for Determining Belt Speeds

If you know the contact wheel diameter in inches (D) and the revolutions per minute (RPM) of the machine shaft, to arrive at the surface feet per minute (SFPM): 

(3.1416)  X  (D) in inches  X  RPM = SFPM

The European equivalent of SFPM is meters per second (M/S). To convert SFPM to M/S, divide by 196.8, or use this formula: 

(1)     (D) in millimeters  X  3.1416 = (C) in mm.

(2).    (C) in mm/1000  X (RPM)/ 60 = M/S

To convert M/S to SFPM, multiply M/S by 196.8 .

Some good "Rule-Of-Thumb" speed recommendations might be:  In SFPM

Aluminum.     4500-5500

Brass-Bronze.      5000-6000

Copper.     4000-5000

Fiberglass.     5000-7000

Glass.      2500-3500

Grey Iron.     4000-5000

Inconel.     3000-4000

MDF or Particle Board.     6000-7000

Stainless Steel.     2500-3500

Plastics.     2000-2500

Plywood.     5000-7000

Hard Rubber.     6000-10000

Mild Steel.       4000-5000

Titanium.     2000-2500

Tool Steel.     4000-5000