In this study, a cutting force in the Ball-end milling process is calculated using Z-map. Z-map can describe any type of cutting area resulting from the previous cutting geometry and cutting condition. Cutting edge of a ball-end mill is divided into infinitesimal cutting edge elements and the position of the ele- ment is projected to the cutter plane normal to the Z axis. Also the cutting area in the cutter plane is obtained by using the Z-map. Comparing this projected position with cutting area, it can be determined whether it engages in the cutting. The cutting force can be calculated by numerical integration of cutting force acting on the engaged cutting edge elements. A series of experiments such as contouring and upward/downward ramp cutting was performed to verify the calculated cutting force.