Cutting Fluids and Lubricants for Machine Tools
Cutting fluids and lubricants for machine tools are products used to reduce friction and wear, extend tool life and improve cutting performance when machining materials. Cutting fluids are used in a variety of machining processes including drilling, milling, boring and grinding. Lubricants are used in a variety of applications such as hydromachining, gear cutting and honing.
The selection of the appropriate cutting fluid and lubricant for each machining operation is an important factor in the success of the manufacturing process. Different materials require different types of cutting fluids and lubricants, and the characteristics of the machining operation will also affect the type and amount of cutting fluid and lubricant used.
There are four main types of cutting fluids and lubricants used in machine tool applications. These include: mineral oils, water-soluble oil emulsions, water-soluble detergents and synthetic coolants. Each type has its own set of benefits and applications.
Mineral oils are the most common type of cutting fluid used in machine tools. Mineral oils are usually composed of straight mineral oils or blends of mineral oils mixed with rust and oxidation inhibitors such as phenolic antioxidants, sulfurized oils and secondary amines. These cutting fluids are used primarily because of their low cost, good compatibility with metal and generally low toxicity.
Water-soluble oil emulsions are liquid solutions of oil-in-water mixtures. These cutting fluids are generally composed of either semi-synthetic or totally synthetic oils and surfactants that help to prevent oxidation and corrosion. They tend to be non-toxic but may contain microorganisms which can cause skin reactions in some people. They are used in machining operations requiring high surface finish and are typically applied through high-pressure spray to ensure adequate cooling and lubrication.
Water-soluble detergents are a combination of detergent and water degreasing agents that act to remove metal particles and dirt. The detergents are typically applied via a pressurized spray and are used in machining applications which require very precise surface finishes. They are generally non-toxic but can irritate skin and eyes.
The last major type of cutting fluid and lubricant used in machine tools is synthetic coolants. These are usually composed of a blend of synthetic oils and surfactants mixed with water and long chain hydrocarbons. Synthetic coolants are non-toxic and can be used for long periods of time without the need for oil replacement. They are typically used in appliations which require precise tolerances and a high-level of surface finish.
When selecting the appropriate cutting fluid and lubricant for each machining operation, it is important to consider the specific characteristics of the material being machined, the type and length of the machining operation, the desired surface finish and the cost of the cutting fluid and lubricant itself. Different types of cutting fluids and lubricants may be more or less suited to particular types of machining operations, and it is important to select the most appropriate product for the application.
Additionally, it is important to consider the environmental impact of the product. Many of the cutting fluids and lubricants used in machine tools can be toxic or hazardous to the environment. As such, it is important to select a product which minimizes the environmental risks associated with its use.
In summary, there is a wide range of cutting fluids and lubricants available for machine tool applications, and the selection of the appropriate product is an important factor in the success of a machining operation. Each product has its own set of benefits, and it is important to consider the specific characteristics of the material being machined, the type and length of the operation and the desired surface finish in order to select the most appropriate cutting fluid and lubricant for the job. Additionally, the environmental impact of the product should also be taken into consideration.
