DB,
Have you looked in your shop bot control software under tools and used the chipload calculator? This may explain what all those numbers mean. It'll ask you to input user variables like number of flutes on the bit, etc. When you have the basic parameters set, you can then take that chipload and reference the chart and make adjustments to the calculator. Then make some practice cuts at the RECOMMENDED (which is all those charts are) feeds and speeds. If you see in the forums this: 1D, or 2X D, that means the depth of cut using the diameter of the bit as a reference. Eg a 1/4" upcut bit with a 1D cut would be cutting with a .25" depth. 2D would be 1/2" depth of cut or DOC. Start with the 1D depths until you have more experience. There are a lot of times when you will want to cut both more and less than that. 38% stepover is a comfortable stepover % to start with for me when doing things like pocketing or roughing.
Even experienced guys will have to do trial and error when using a new material and/ or new technique in the same material.
You can't really give ballpark figures because there are so so so many different materials, machine set ups, humidity levels, altitudes, hold down methods. Its really impossible. I think Onsrud and others give cutting parameters that they feel are safe and conservative, this is only my opinion.
hope that helps.
PRS Alpha 96" X 48" w/ 12" Z
4hp Spindle
6" Indexer
Aspire 8