Optimise your machining process with the right combination of metalworking fluids

No matter what your machining process may be, you’re likely using a variety of metalworking fluids to increase tool life and preserve your machined parts. But when is the last time you reviewed your fluid selection? Using the ideal cutting fluid for your application can drastically extend your machines’ operation. In combination with the proper cleaners and rust preventives,the parts you produce will remain preserved for as long as needed. Quaker Houghton offers the full package of metalworking fluids and can help you make the right choice based on your needs.

Cutting Fluids

Cutting fluids are split into two major categories: neat oils and coolants. Neat oils consist of mineral oils and additives and require no dilution, while coolants are water-dilutable emulsion forming fluids. Coolants can be further broken down into 3 subcategories:

While soluble fluids offer the best lubrication in heavy duty machining, synthetics excel at cooling and are more frequently used in light machining. Semi-synthetics offer a balance of cooling and lubrication.

Neat oils have historically been used for heavy duty applications, but Quaker Houghton has developed specialty coolants for many different purposes. Along with the added cooling benefits, water-based cutting fluids are less messy, easier to clean, and can help reduce costs due to dilution. 

Quaker Houghton also offers cleaners and rust preventives that are applied after metal removal to clean and protect the material. For instance, it is generally recommended that QUAKERCOOL® coolant be followed by a QUAKERCLEAN® cleaner and FERROCOTE® rust preventive.

Cleaners

Process cleaners are an instrumental part of the metalworking process. Cleaners remove dirt and previously applied fluids from a part’s surface. If a part is not properly cleaned, the rust preventive may not work. Some cleaners should only be applied to certain materials, so it is important to check that the cleaner is compatible with the workpiece. Different process cleaners are offered for different applications. For example, if your shop is using a spray cleaner, your cleaning fluid should be optimized for sprayers rather than immersion cleaners. Quaker Houghton also offers cleaners for ferrous and nonferrous metals, including those that are non-staining to yellow metals and aluminum.

Rust Preventives

Selecting an appropriate metal protectant and applying it correctly will preserve the workpiece and shield it from the environment. The rust preventive will form a layer that prevents water and oxygen from penetrating the metal surface. Quaker Houghton offers a variety of rust preventives that differ in protection time, application, and film properties. The main benefits of three most popular types of RP’s are outlined below:

Whether your products require indoor or outdoor protection, or your workpieces are stored for 2 months or a year, Quaker Houghton has the right solution for you. If you have any follow-up questions or are seeking product recommendations, don’t hesitate to contact us by phone at 1-888-872-1375 or email us at Insidesales.support@quakerhoughton.com