The key elements that must be available in any chosen industrial coolants are: high thermal conductivity, large heat capacity, low viscosity, chemical neutrality, e.t.c. Types of industrial coolants include: soluble oils, synthetic fluids, semi-synthetic fluids, straight oil, amongst others.
Soluble oils are also referred to as emulsion and usable for general purposes in light and heavy duty operations. They are majorly composed of large quantities of mineral oil, petroleum, additives and other emulsifiers mixed with water. Soluble oils are less expensive and are generally preferred as coolants because the oil and water mixture serve as good lubrication for improved cooling.
Synthetic fluids possess petroleum or mineral oil properties and can be classified as simple, complex or emulsifiers based on their formations. They are made of water and organic or inorganic chemical compounds and as a result, they have high cooling capacity and lubricity. They are easily maintainable and generally suitable for a variety of machining processes.
Semi-synthetic fluid coolants are a combination of water-based fluids, soluble oils and synthetics in addition to wetting agents and corrosion inhibitors. Most semi-synthetics are translucent and heat sensitive. Their distinctive features like generating less smoke due to low volume of oil contained in them, corrosion protection, better settling and cleaning properties, make them a highly desirable coolant option.
Straight oils are not water miscible, that means, they are not mixed with water but rather made of petroleum and mineral oil base and contain lubricants like fats and vegetable oil to provide the best lubrication. They are applicable for metal cutting, cleaning, protection, and maintenance operations.
It is ideal to be conversant with the composition, source and method of application of different coolants to ensure it meets purpose. For example, while synthetic fluids are best suited for easy machining operations, heavy duty operations like broaching and thread cutting can best be handled by mineral oils because of their extreme pressures.
The functions of industrial coolants are numerous in machining processes and they include: removing and reducing heat build-up, serves as lubricant to reduce friction, protects against corrosion, enhancement of surface finish, improves and extends tool life, e.t.c.
Morven Industrial ltd is a trusted and reliable dealer in industrial coolant supplies required for machining processes such as milling, grinding, and turning. Our lines of coolants have undergone various stages of quality tests and are guaranteed for best results.