Month: November 2013

A cutting fluid should have specific characteristics to be effective at cutting metal. Here are some of the major properties to look out for:

• Good heat transfer performance: This will reduce the amount of heat given off during cutting and therefore reduce the chances of accidental fires. It also ensures the metals will not be ruined by excessive heat.
• Good lubrication performance: This is very important, reduction in friction reduces the amount of heat produced and therefore increases the tool life.
• Cutting fluid should flush chips away from the work surface.
• It should prevent rusting of the cutting tools and materials.
• It should not corrode the tools or the metals.
• The cost of the cutting fluid should be relative and proportional to the output.
• The cutting fluid should be environmentally friendly to dispose of without causing any pollution.
• People handling the cutting fluid should be able to use it comfortably without having to worry about its toxicity levels.

Always read the product labels before purchasing any cutting fluid to make sure you are buying the right product for your specific needs. If the work you are performing is light duty, less heat will be produced and the task is even easier to complete.

Cutting fluids undergo maintenance using a refractometer to check the concentration of the soluble emulsions, checking the pH levels and checking the amount of tramp oil, the hydraulic oil that leaks into the cutting fluid system. Over time the fluid will degrade due to bacterial growth and tramp oil; as this happens, discard the cutting fluid in a safe, environmentally friendly manner.

Metal cutting fluid is used in metalworking and machining for different purposes, predominantly lubrication and cooling. It comes in various different forms including synthetic fluids, semisynthetic fluids, oils and soluble oils.

Synthetic fluids are made of alkaline compounds and compounds that prevent corrosion. They are used in diluted water and are the premier product in cooling. Semisynthetic fluids are a combination of soluble oils and synthetic fluids and its characteristics appear in both constituents.

Oils are used undiluted. They offer the best lubrication but poorest cooling. Soluble oils are emulsified with water and give good lubrication and cooling compared to the other products. They are the most cost effective and are therefore most widely used.

Characteristics and Functions of a Good Metal Cutting Fluid:

• The main characteristic is its ability to keep the metal and tool temperature stable to avoid destroying the metal due to high temperatures or even a fire on adjacent materials.
• It should provide proper lubrication to lengthen the life of the cutting tip and reduce the amount of heat produced by reducing friction.
• It should be able to prevent rust on the metal cutters and relevant parts.
• The cutting fluid should be safe to use and environmentally friendly to dispose of.
• It should flush pieces of metal away from the cutting area.
  The different metal cutting fluids require different application methods; these include flooding, misting, spraying, dripping and brushing. The most common and preferred method is a jet of liquid being applied to the surface being worked on.

Metal Cutting Fluid Advantages:

• Reduced chances of deformation by heat
• Longer tool life
• Ease of chip handling
• Better surface finish.

Metal working fluids are used to remove particles during grinding and machining procedures.

They reduce the amount of heat and friction produced and can be referred to as metal cutting fluids. They are a powerful resource in the machine industry yet due to their complex chemical compositions, they require extra care and consideration when working with them. Metal working fluids are composed of mixtures of straight oils, corrosion inhibitors and additives to introduce extreme pressure, emulsifiers, biocides and anti-weld agents.

Using the right metal cutting lubricant is very important in MQL (Minimum Quantity Lubrication) applications. The perfect lubricant will adhere to the surface of the tool and provide a thin, low friction barrier between the cutting tool and work piece.

While in use, some metal cutting fluids may become contaminated by hydraulic fluids or particles produced by grinding. Over time, water-based fluids may become contaminated via bacterial growth which may cause biological byproducts like mycotoxins and endotoxins.

In some cases, exposure such as breathing in the aerosols fumes or skin contact when touching equipment or tools covered with the fluids can cause negative effects. These effects include allergic reactions such as a rash, impaired lung function, chronic bronchitis, hypersensitivity pneumonitis and asthma.

To prevent these, you should always adhere to the following measures:

• Wear protective clothing before handling the fluids. Wear a mask and gloves at all times.
• Ensure your working area is properly ventilated to avoid contaminant recirculation.
• When using a fluid, use splash guards to prevent unnecessary spraying and splashing.
• Keep all machines clean and ensure the fluids are changed frequently.
• Always follow the precautions given on the Safety Data Sheets from your supplier.
• Always wash your hands before eating or drinking and avoid eating or drinking in the work area.
• Ensure that all machinery undergoes regular maintenance to reduce contamination from tramp oils.

Switch to Unist Coolube to eliminate these issues

Studies have shown that Coolube^® metal cutting fluid has superior properties which make it an ideal lubricant. Coolube’s^® polar properties create a strong consistent bond between Coolube^® and metallic surfaces. This creates an even, strong, and durable layer of lubrication.

Coolube^® reduces friction 50% better than typical mineral oils preventing heat buildup and resulting in longer tool life and a superior cut finish.

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