Which CNC coolant should be selected for aluminum alloy cnc machining?
During CNC machining, cooling is essential. Coolant serves a variety of purposes to keep machines running efficiently and accurately. Using the correct type of CNC coolant during milling, grinding or turning will prevent overheating and increase tool life.
Milling technology is one of the most commonly used CNC processes in the industry. It is ideal for producing custom designed parts on a range of materials. However, companies that specialize in CNC aluminum alloy parts must use coolant to limit and control overheating of milling cutters.
What is the importance of CNC machining coolants and which ones should you choose? Let's discuss it.
The role of coolant
During the cutting process, high temperature is very harmful to the workpiece, chips and tools. Thermal energy may permanently damage the milling cutter or cause bodily injury to the technician. This is why CNC coolant is essential during machining.
Lubrication
Coolant and lubricant are sometimes used interchangeably. However, they are not the same. Coolant is used during milling to reduce friction between the tool and remove chips.
Aluminum as a material can be very sticky and tend to tend to the knife. Coolant can make things slippery, making chips stick to them.
· For cooling
Heat buildup is dangerous to both the tool and the machine operator. CNC machining coolants can be used to reduce the temperature of workpieces and tools. Heavy cutting operations take a long time and generate heat faster.
· Reduce corrosion
CNC coolant is essential to protect tooling and manufactured parts from corrosion. By providing the necessary lubrication, the machining process is seamless with minimal surface damage.
Type of coolant used when aluminum alloy
Selecting a CNC coolant is entirely based on the performance of the product and the materials used. Certain types of coolant work better than others and also serve different purposes. You should choose a coolant based on whether you need it for cooling only, as a lubricant, for chip removal, or for all functions.
There are different types of coolants, including liquids, gels, and aerosols. Liquid coolants are the most common and come in soluble oils, straight oils, synthetic and semi-synthetic fluids.
On CNC aluminum projects, you need a coolant with a high oil content, such as pure oil. This is the best choice because aluminum tends to be very sticky; therefore, you need plenty of lubrication to keep chips away from the cutter. Straight oils have a base mineral oil or petroleum component that works in undiluted form. Lubricants such as vegetable oils, esters and fats are essential during CNC milling.
What to Consider When Using CNC Coolant
Concentration levels need to be carefully considered during the use of CNC coolant. Deficits or surpluses affect machines and increase manufacturing and repair costs.
· Low concentration of coolant
If the quantity is small, the manufacturer will incur costs due to overheating and friction. In addition, milling cutters reduce life and cause workpiece and machine corrosion. Also, the tool may harbor bacteria which reduces its performance level.
· High concentration of coolant
On the other hand, if a technician uses too much CNC coolant during milling, there will be a lot of concentrate wasted. Excessive amounts can form residues on machining tools, which shortens working life.
Additionally, this high volume of coolant can contaminate workpieces and tools. For operators, they may cause skin irritation from chemicals.
Summary
CNC coolant is a necessity in aluminum processing. Choosing the right coolant and application method ensures that the tools and aluminum custom parts are lubricated and protected from overheating during the milling process. During application, check the coolant concentration to prevent further damage to the machine.
These coolants can extend the life of your machine and make your company more cost-effective. Contact Xiehe if you require highly accurate and consistent CNC aluminum components.
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