Machining operations are often used to produce desired parts from a variety of materials. These operations include turning, drilling, milling, grinding and so on. In order to perform operations effectively and efficiently, many machinists use coolants or cutting fluids.
Cooling or cutting fluids are liquids used to aid the machining process. Their main role is to reduce friction between the workpiece, the tool and other moving parts of the cutting machine. Cutting fluids also help to carry away the heat generated during machining, cool the tools and reduce tool wear.
Cutting fluids come in several forms, each designed to meet the needs of different operations. Water-soluble cutting fluids are the most widely used and are generally considered the safest and most economical choice. These fluids are a mix of emulsifiers, biocides, lubricants, anti-foaming agents and stabilizers.e formulated and mixed with water to create a homogenous solution. Common types of water-soluble fluids include semi-synthetic, synthetic and vegetable-based varieties.
Synthetic oil and water-soluble oil-based cutting fluids are also widely utilized. Often used for heavy-duty machining operations, these fluids blend lubricants, synthetic base oils and rust inhibitors. Oil-based cutting fluids are non-toxic, non-corrosive and stable, and can be used for most machining operations that involve non-ferrous metals and other materials.
However, oil-based cutting fluids can produce mist, smoke and volatiles, which is why they are not used on machining operations involving highly flammable materials. In applications where these risks are present, vegetable-based cutting fluids are used instead.
These types of coolants are a mix of nanofluids and vegetable oils which are formulated to provide lubrication and heat transfer. Since they are water-soluble, they can be safely used on operations involving highly flammable materials. Generally, vegetable-based fluids last longer than water-soluble fluids and are often used for tougher and longer machining operations.
Regardless of which type of cutting fluid is used, it is important to ensure the temperature of the cutting fluids are kept properly. If they are too high, they can cause tool wear and reduce the effectiveness of the lubricants. If they are too low, they can reduce cooling efficiency, which will also lead to tool wear.
Using the right coolant or cutting fluid is an important part of machining operations. Each type has its own set of benefits and drawbacks, and it is important to choose the right one for a particular application.
