Which CNC coolant should be chosen when CNC machining aluminum alloy?
In the CNC machining process, cooling is essential. Coolant serves many purposes and ensures that your machine runs efficiently and accurately. Using the right type of CNC machining coolant during milling, grinding or turning can prevent overheating and extend 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 machining aluminum alloy parts must use coolant to limit and control milling cutter overheating.
Aluminum alloy CNC processing
What is the importance of CNC machining coolants and which ones should you choose? Let's discuss it.
The role of coolant in aluminum alloy CNC machining
During the cutting process, high temperatures are very harmful to the workpiece, chips, and tools. Thermal energy may permanently damage the milling cutter or cause physical harm 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 the removed chips.
Aluminum as a material can be very sticky and can tend to tend towards knives. Coolant makes things slippery and makes chips stick to them.
· For cooling
Heat build-up is dangerous to both tool and machine operators. CNC machining coolant can be used to reduce the temperature of the workpiece and tool. Heavy cutting operations take a long time and generate heat faster.
· Reduce corrosion
CNC machining coolant is essential for protecting tools and manufactured parts from corrosion. By providing the necessary lubrication, the machining process is seamless with minimal surface damage.
Types of coolants used when CNC machining aluminum alloys
The choice of CNC machining coolant is based entirely on the properties of the product and materials used. Some types of coolant work better than others and have different uses. You should choose your coolant based on whether you only need cooling, as a lubricant, chip removal, or all functions.
There are different types of coolants, including liquids, gels, and aerosols. Liquid coolants are the most common and come in soluble oils, pure oils, synthetic and semi-synthetic fluids.
In CNC aluminum projects, you need a coolant with a high oil content, such as pure oil. This is the best option because aluminum tends to be very sticky; therefore, you'll need plenty of lubrication to keep chips away from the mill. 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.
Aluminum alloy processing
What to consider when using CNC machining coolant
During use of CNC coolant, concentration levels need to be carefully considered. A deficit or surplus affects the machine and increases manufacturing and repair costs.
· Low coolant concentration
If quantities are low, manufacturers will incur costs from overheating and friction. In addition, milling cutters reduce life and cause corrosion of the workpiece and machine. Additionally, the tool may harbor bacteria that can reduce its performance level.
· High coolant concentration
On the other hand, if technicians use too much CNC coolant during the milling process, there will be a lot of waste of concentrate. Excessive amounts can form residue on machining tools, shortening working life.
Additionally, this large amount of coolant can contaminate workpieces and tools. For operators, they may experience skin irritation from the chemicals.
generalize
CNC coolant is a necessity in the aluminum machining process. Choosing the right coolant and application method ensures that cutting tools and aluminum custom parts are lubricated and protected from overheating during the milling process. During application, check coolant concentration to prevent further damage to the machine.