Cutting Fluids: Functions, Properties

 Various functions of cutting fluids are

• Cutting fluid cools the workpiece and tool by carrying away the heat generated during machining.
• It acts as lubricant at the friction zones, hence tool life increases.
• As friction get reduced, the forces and electricity power consumption decreases.
• Using cutting fluids produces better surface finish to the workpiece.
• It causes to break the chips into small pieces.
• It washes away the chips from the tool.
• It prevents the corrosion of chips and machine.
• Improves dimensional accuracy and control on the workpiece.
• It permits maximum cutting speed hence the time for machining reduce and cost of manufacturing increases.

Properties to be possessed by the cutting fluids are

• Cutting fluids should have low viscosity to permit free flow of the liquid.
• It should possess good lubricating properties.
• It should have high specific heat, high heat conductivity and high h.t.c.
• It should be non-corrosive to work and machine.
• It should be non-toxic to operating person.
• It should be odorless.
• It should stable in use and storage.
• It should be safe.
• It should permit clear view of the work operation.

Most commonly used cutting fluids for

• Cast Iron: No cutting fluids are used.
• Steels: Lord oil with mineral oil is used.
• Alloy steel: Sulphur brass oil with mineral oil is used.
• Copper: Soluble oil with 90 to 95% of water is used.
• Aluminium: Mineral oil with soluble oil cutting fluids are used as cutting fluids.