What is feed on a lathe?

Feed on a lathe refers to the distance the cutting tool moves in relation to the workpiece per revolution of the spindle. It is typically expressed in units like inches per revolution (IPR) or millimeters per revolution (MMR). The feed rate affects the surface finish, tool wear, and machining efficiency, with higher feed rates generally resulting in faster material removal but potentially lower surface quality. Properly adjusting the feed is crucial for achieving desired machining outcomes while maintaining tool and machine longevity.