Metalworking Fluids Purpose, Properties, and Applications

Various machining operations use a specialized liquid that facilitates the cutting and machining of metal parts. These fluids are known as Metalworking Fluids. Its main function is to reduce heat generation during a machining process. These coolants help to keep the temperature in control and also reduce friction between two objects. However, it also performs various other functions. From enhancing the tool performance and improving the surface finish quality to reducing tool wear and increasing the production rate, these fluids are multi-purpose and, thus, a necessity in the machining operations.

Properties of Metalworking Fluids

The properties of a metalworking fluid define its performance. These properties are usually formulated to meet the specific requirements of a machining process. Some of the common properties of cutting fluids are as follows:

• Lubrication:
  One of the important properties of Metalworking fluids is lubrication. It lubricates the workpiece and the tool which helps to reduce friction, heat, and wear. 
• Cooling:
  Primarily used to reduce heat generation, metalworking fluids absorb and dissipate heat generated during machining to prevent thermal damage. 
• Corrosion Protection:
  Corrosion caused by the exposure of workpieces and tools to the environment can be prevented with metalworking fluids.
• Cleaning:
  Workpiece and the tool surface can be cleaned with the help of metalworking fluids. They flush the metal chips & dust and other contaminants generated during the machining process.
• Antifoaming:
  One of the most important properties of metalworking fluids is the prevention of foam during the machining process and an important property for coolants.

Applications of Metalworking Fluids

Metalworking fluids are used for various machining operations which include milling, turning, drilling, grinding, and cutting, etc. Let us understand the applications in detail:

• Grinding:
  With the help of metalworking fluids, one can reduce heat and friction in the grinding operations. It improves surface finish quality.
• Turning:
  Metalworking fluids help reduce friction and wear in turning operations. It also improves surface finish quality and extends the tool life.
• Milling:
  Using metalworking fluids in milling operations, one can reduce friction and improve surface finish quality. It also helps in preventing chip buildup.
• Drilling:
  For reducing heat and friction in the drilling operations, metalworking fluids are used. It also preventsdrill bit wear whilst improving hole/tapping quality.
• Cutting:
  By using metalworking fluids in cutting operations, one can reduce friction and improve surface finish quality. It even prevents tool wear & tear.

Conclusion

Metalworking fluids play an important role in enhancing the performance of machining operations. Its properties are designed to meet specific requirements of the machining process. These fluids are used in improving various machining operations, productivity, reduce costs, and improve the quality of metal parts.

Victory Polychem offers a complete range of cutting oils and solutions suitable for your complex processes. With these multi-metal compatible metal working fluids, we deliver efficiency in the form of innovation. We cater to your specific requirements and have water-based, mineral oil-based, and vegetable esters based semi-synthetic/synthetic fluids. Our products are eco-friendly, and specially designed to keep your working environment safe. To ensure unparallel safety, all our products are free from hazardous chemicals listed by Cummins USA. 

Whether you are looking for metalworking fluids in the automobile industry, marine industry, engine testing industry, and railway industry, defence industry or bearing manufacturing and other industries, our cutting oils can meet your needs. For achieving desired productivity levels in metal working processes, choose Victory Polychem!