The Role Of CNC Coolants

Cooling is essential during CNC machining. Coolants serve a variety of purposes to ensure that machine tools run efficiently and accurately. Using the right type of CNC coolant during milling, grinding or turning can prevent overheating and extend tool life.

Milling is one of the most commonly used CNC processes in the industry. It is well suited for producing custom-designed parts on a wide range of materials. However, companies that specialize in CNC aluminum parts must use coolants to limit and control overheating of milling tools.

The Role of CNC Coolants

During the cutting process, high temperatures can be very harmful to the workpiece, chips, tools and even the machinist. Heat can permanently damage milling tools or injure technicians. Therefore, CNC coolants are vital in the machining process.

For Lubrication

Coolants and lubricants are sometimes used interchangeably. However, they are not the same. Coolant is used in the milling process to reduce friction between tools and to remove chips.

Aluminum as a material can be very sticky and will tend to gravitate towards the tool. Coolant will make the chips slippery.

Cooling

Heat buildup is dangerous for both the tool and the machine operator. CNC coolants are effective in reducing workpiece and tool temperatures. Heavy cutting operations take a long time and generate heat at a much faster rate.

Chip removal

When milling aluminum, a large amount of material is removed from the workpiece. As a result, there are chips in the work area. Liquid coolant removes these chips from the milling cutter and ensures a good surface finish.

Reducing Corrosion

CNC coolants are essential for protecting tools and machined parts from corrosion. By providing the necessary lubrication, machining processes are seamless and surface damage is minimized.