In this study, expert system for the selection of the optimal cutting speed and feed rate was developed using NEXPERT system shell. The NC system has been usually used inefficiently because the input command, which contains cutting speed, feed-rate and the depth of cut, is fixed value which depends on principally operator's experience and machining handbooks providing a guideline for applicable ranges. On the other hand, the optimal cutting conditions vary with time, and depend on tool and machine characteristics, work materials, and cost factor and so on. In this study, if cutting factors, such as, cutting method, material type, cutting depth, and tool nose radius are specified, our expert system gets the information about the standard cutting speed form the cutting speed database, and provides optimum feed rate for these cutting conditions. This cutting speed database can be updated by inputting valid cutting speed which is obtained form the practices.