Cutting fluids are liquids used in various machining operations, such as grinding, milling and turning, to cool, lubricate and carry away particles produced by the cutting action. Cutting fluids have numerous advantages. When used properly, they reduce tool wear and breakage, improve process accuracy, reduce surface roughness, extend tool life, improve part finish and reduce labor costs.
The choice of cutting fluid for a particular machining application is dependent on the type and hardness of the material, the type of tool and cutting speed, the particular operations and the desired cutting fluid properties. When selecting a cutting fluid for a particular application, it is important to consider the various features that different liquids offer.
For example, some fluids provide lubrication while others provide cooling. Some fluids are specifically designed for use with hard or difficult to machine materials. Others are designed for use with soft metals. To determine which cutting fluid is best for a particular application, it is important to understand the properties of the material being machined and the parameters of the machining process.
Understanding the nature of difficult to machine materials is essential when selecting a cutting fluid. Hard materials, such as stainless steel, titanium and high-speed steels, require fluids that will provide good lubrication and cooling for efficient machining. The selection of a cutting fluid for these materials should be based on a number of factors, including viscosity, lubricity and rust prevention properties.
Many manufacturers of cutting fluids also offer special lubricants for difficult to machine materials. These lubricants can reduce tool temperatures and provide better machine operation. They can also reduce tool wear and tool breakage, improve surface finish, reduce surface roughness and extend tool life.
The selection of cutting fluid for difficult to machine materials should also take into account the type of tool being used and the machining parameters. Different tools require different lubricants and the selection should be based on the tool diameter, the type of metal being machined and the cutting speed. The correct selection of cutting fluid can reduce tool temperatures, reduce tool wear and tool breakage, improve surface finish and increase production output.
To maximize tool life, it is also important to maintain the proper levels of lubrication and cooling. This can be done by regularly changing the cutting fluids and monitoring the functioning of the tool and its parameters.
In addition to proper selection and maintenance of cutting fluids, it is important to remember that proper machine setup is essential to satisfactory machining of difficult to machine materials. The cutting tool should be sharpened properly, and blade configurations and combinations should be appropriate for the material being machined.
In conclusion, the selection of an appropriate cutting fluid for machining of difficult to machine materials is essential for successful and satisfactory processes. Proper selection and maintenance of cutting fluids, along with proper machine setup and operation, are key components for successful machining of difficult to machine materials.
