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6 Key Factors to Consider When Utilizing a Cutting Fluid

Milling the metal blank with coolant

Cutting fluids provide a diverse range of functions depending upon their application. They assist machinists when:

  • Cooling their job, carrying away heat.
  • During the the cutting process, lubricating ‘under the chip’ and ‘on the nose’ of the tip
  • Preventing corrosion so that work pieces and equipment does not rust.
  • Removing large amounts of ‘chips’ which are produced by heavy cuts.

However, there are 6 key factors to consider when using a cutting fluid.

  1. Flow: The optimum flow is achieved when the fluid gently proceeds onto the work piece. This cannot be achieved when the nozzle is too far away from the job or when the nozzle is too close, in which case the high pressure causes wastage of the cutting fluid. Ensure your nozzle is distanced correctly from the workpiece and flow is ‘gentle.’
  2. Temperature: Ensure the fluid reservoir contains enough cutting fluid to dissipate all of the heat.
  3. Choosing a Cutting Fluid: Utilize our free online tool to select which cutting fluid to use. Additionally, you can view our entire range of cutting fluids here.
  4. Method of Supply: Ensure your cutting fluid is sourced from only one reservoir. This ensures the fluid supply it is not polluted or cross contaminated.
  5. Reclaim, Sterilize and Filter: Ensure your cutting machines are clean to reduce costs.
  6. Application: The nozzle should direct the cutting fluid where heat is the greatest and where there is minimal splashing.


Sourced from Fitting and Machining by Ron Culley

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