The Role and Performance Requirements of Metal Cutting Fluids
Metal cutting fluids are fluids used in metalworking processes, such as machining and grinding, to protect against heat, debris and other theoretically deleterious effects. In addition to that, cutting fluids also serve as a lubricant, coolant and rust inhibitor.
Cutting fluids are divided into two main types: soluble oils and neat oils. Soluble oils are petroleum-based, with the chemical composition of detergents and surfactants, giving them the ability to mix with water. This provides a number of advantages, such as reducing smoke, reducing dust and controlling the friction of the surfaces being machined. Soluble oils can be used in a variety of applications and are generally less hazardous than neat oils.
Neat oils, as the name implies, are fluids made up of only oil. They are usually mineral oil-based and are used for more hazardous applications such as deep drilling, tapping and reaming. Neat oils have the advantage of providing good corrosion protection and reducing friction, leading to better tool life.
Regardless of the type of cutting fluid used, there are some general performance requirements that must be met in order for the fluid to be effective. The fluid must be able to effectively reduce friction while also providing cooling to the process. In addition, it must also provide an adequate level of lubrication and rust prevention, and it must be able to prevent plugging of the workpiece (which could lead to the machine stalling). The fluid must also be compatible with the type of metal being machined and not cause any staining or other negative side effects. Finally, it must be non-toxic, biodegradable, and free of any dangerous chemical by-products.
In conclusion, cutting fluids play an important role in metal processing and have a number of performance requirements that must be met in order for them to be effective. The type of fluid used will depend on the application and the material being machined, but in any case the main goal is to ensure that the performance requirements are met in order for the process to be successful.
