What is step-over in milling process?

In the milling process, "step-over" refers to the lateral distance that the cutting tool moves over after each pass. It is a critical parameter that affects the surface finish and material removal rate, as a smaller step-over can produce finer finishes but may increase machining time. Conversely, a larger step-over can speed up the process but may lead to a rougher surface. Properly optimizing the step-over is essential for achieving desired tolerances and surface quality in the final product.