There are several products available in the markets that are vital for cutting metals. These include metal cutting fluids and cutting oils. The products are developed to meet various needs in processing of metal and their cutting. Firstly, reducing heat and friction in metal processing and cutting is very essential. Metal cutting fluids are essentially formulated to deal with these factors. Further, they aid in removal of particles from the working surfaces while processing metal.
Metal cutting fluids vary from the straight fluids to the water based fluids. Each of the variety is appropriate for different metals and surfaces. However, most of the fluids will contain several components including pressure additives, corrosion inhibitors, biocides, stabilizers emulsifiers, de-foamers, fragrances, dyes, and colorants among others. Therefore, before you settle on a metal cutting fluid, you must conduct a good research to identify the very appropriate one.
It is of essence to note that storage of metal cutting fluids will bring about contamination from certain formations known as nitrosamines. This will normally occur when the fluids are stored for a long time. Further, several components in the fluids will encourage growth of bacteria that will eventually change the properties of the fluid. Therefore, while purchasing the fluids, consider the length in which the product has stayed on the shelf. Also, purchase the product in small quantities to avoid remainders that will eventually be wasteful.
One of the major concerns is the health implications after using metal cutting fluids. Research has shown that many people are rendered ill after using the products for a long time. This calls for a lot of precaution to avoid health complications such as respiratory illnesses and cancer in the long run.
Cutting fluids are not limited to metal cutting, though their composition and functions are similar to those of metal cutting fluids. They are further used in various machining processes. Various terms are used to refer to the product depending on the context in which they are used. Some of those names include cutting compound, lubricant and coolant among others. They take many other forms including pastes and gels, mists and various gases.