Cooling is essential in CNC machining processes. Coolants serve multiple purposes and keep machines running efficiently and accurately. Using the correct CNC coolant when milling, grinding or turning prevents overheating and extends tool life.
Milling technology is one of the most commonly used CNC processes in industry. It's perfect for creating custom pieces from a variety of materials. However, companies that specialize in machining aluminum CNC parts must use coolant to limit and control overheating of milling tools.
How important is a CNC coolant and which one should you choose? Let's discuss this.
The role of CNC coolants
High temperatures during cutting are very harmful to the workpiece, chips, tools and even machinists. Thermal energy can permanently damage milling tools or cause physical injury to technicians. For this reason, a CNC coolant is essential in the machining process.
· For lubrication
Coolants and lubricants are sometimes used interchangeably. However, they are not the same. Coolant is used during milling to reduce friction between the tool and chip removal.
Aluminum can be a very sticky material and tends to stick to the cutter. Soda makes things slippery, causing chips to stick.
· For cooling
Heat buildup is dangerous to both tools and machine operators. A CNC coolant is useful for reducing temperatures in both the workpiece and the cutting tool. Heavy cutting takes a long time and generates heat more quickly.
· To clean the chips
When milling aluminum, a lot of material is removed from the part. This causes splinters to form in the work area. A liquid coolant transports these chips away from the cutter to ensure a good surface finish.
· To reduce corrosion
CNC coolants are essential for protecting tools and manufactured parts from corrosion. By providing the necessary lubrication, the machining process runs smoothly and minimal surface damage occurs.
How many types of soda delivery are there?
Now that you have the soda, you can use it in a few different ways. Using the wrong pressure can damage your tools.
1. Compressed air
Air coolants remove chips and ensure cooling of CNC milling tools. As it is one of the most economical cooling methods, it is preferred for sensitive materials. However, the disadvantage of this method is that it has no lubricating effect and is therefore unsuitable for processes with intense friction.
2. Flood Cooling
For CNC aluminum projects, heat can be mitigated using this method. Coolant is sprayed between the tool and the milled aluminum. As it is a low pressure method, it is also suitable for lubrication and chip removal of the milling tool.
Using this liquid coolant for CNC means that you will have to spend a lot of time cleaning the liquid around the machines after the milling process.
3. Minimum Quantity Lubrication (MQL)
Unlike the flood method, which uses large amounts of CNC coolant, this process focuses on efficiency. With MQL technology, machine operators and technicians use the least amount of coolant in machines. The amount used depends on the specific needs of the milling session.
Applied as an aerosol or fine mist, this coolant reduces costs and environmental damage by accurately calculating the amount needed. However, errors can have a significant impact on machine operation.
4. Solid application
To prevent water and soil contamination, machine operators can use solid lubricants such as industrial ointments. However, as it saves money and protects the environment, you may have to work harder if you use it regularly. Furthermore, this is not an effective method for removing chips from the tool.
Types of coolants for aluminum milling
Choosing a CNC coolant depends entirely on the performance of the product and the materials used. Some types of refrigerant work better than others and also have different uses. You should choose a coolant depending on whether you need it just for cooling, as a lubricant, for chip removal or for all functions.
There are different types of refrigerants, including liquids, gels and aerosols. Liquid refrigerants are the most common and can be soluble oils, pure oils, synthetic and semi-synthetic fluids.
For 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 need a lot of lubricant to keep chips away from the milling tool.
Pure oils have a mineral or petroleum composition that works in undiluted form. Lubricants such as vegetable oils, esters and fats are essential in CNC milling processes.
What should be considered when using CNC coolants?
When using a CNC coolant, concentration values must be considered carefully. Lack or excess can affect machines and increase manufacturing and repair costs.
Low refrigerant concentration
With small quantities, the manufacturer incurs costs due to excessive heat and friction. Furthermore, the service life of the milling tools is reduced and corrosion can occur on the workpiece and the machine. Bacterial growth can also occur on the tool, reducing performance.
· High refrigerant concentration
On the other hand, if technicians use too much CNC coolant during milling, too much concentrate will be wasted. Excess forms residue on processing tools, which shortens their useful life.
Furthermore, the large amount of coolant can cause stains on parts and tools. Chemicals can cause irritation to operators' skin.
Summary
CNC coolants are essential in the aluminum process. Choosing the appropriate coolant and application method ensures that both tools and special aluminum parts are lubricated and protected from excessive heat during milling. Check the coolant concentration during application to avoid further damage to the machine. These refrigerants can extend the life of your machines and make your business more economical. If you need consistent, high-precision CNC aluminum components, contact us at WayKen.
