A milling machine is used in many industries that require metalwork. The milling machine will require some type of coolant to keep the machine to function properly. There are several coolants available, and most manufacturers of milling machines will recommend the type of coolant to use with their brand of machines. It is important to know the type of coolant that helps machines perform well. The type of coolant used will be influenced by what type of material is milled.
Understanding The Types of Coolants
Since milling machines may differ it is important to use the correct coolant. There are several types of coolants such as:
• Chemical coolants
• Semi-chemical coolants
• Cutting oils
• Emulsions
Chemical coolants have little oil content and pre-concentrated emulsion. A milling machine coolant can be a chemical coolant, and it can be mixed with water easily. The history of chemical coolants dates as far back as 1945. It will have chemical agents to reduce friction. It provides good cooling properties, and it is not difficult to clean workspace after its’ use. Chemical coolants can be contaminated by other agents that would reduce its effectiveness. The semi-chemical coolant also has small content of oil, contains chemical and some emulsion. It allows a machine to work at higher speeds. It protects against corrosion very well, and it can be easier to clean up than some coolants. Cutting oils also referred to as straight cutting oils can be categorized as active or inactive based on the amount of sulfur it contains. Cuttings oils are ideal when heat transfer is necessary. The straight cutting oils are great for grinding and really prolong the life of the machine. With the use of oil, a person must understand there is a risk of fire. Emulsions are oil in water and with the use of emulsifiers, it ensures the mixture stays together. Emulsions may be referred to as soluble oils Emulsions may contain up to 60 to 90 percent of petroleum oil. It provides good cooling capabilities. Since emulsions contain some water, it can cause rust. It could cause slipping hazards in the workplace due to the oil it contains.
Practices To Maximize The Use of Coolant
The material can dictate what coolant should be used. When milling aluminum, a person may want to use soluble oil that could consist of over 90 percent water. By understanding what coolant works with the type of material can help maintain the quality of the product. It helps maintain the machine as well. You always want coolant of good quality; therefore, you will ensure that the coolants are not overrun with contaminants by monitoring. Coolants should be tested to ensure it not too contaminated beyond the point of it being useful. It is important to know how to apply coolant and what mixture will be appropriate for the machine being used. You should know the concentration of the coolant to be used. When water is required to mix with coolant, a person should use deionized water. The deionized water normally is non-corrosive, especially to aluminum. You want to ensure the coolant is bacteria and fungi free.
