Site Traffic Information and Cookies

We use cookies to collect and analyse information on our site's performance and to enable the site to function. Cookies also allow us and our partners to show you relevant ads when you visit our site and other 3rd party websites, including social networks. You can choose to allow all cookies by clicking 'Allow all', or manage them individually by clicking 'Manage cookie preferences', where you will also find more information.

Manage cookie preferences

  1. HOME
  2. LEARN
  3. INDUSTRIAL RESOURCES
  4. BLOGS
  5. ULTIMATE SELECTION GUIDE FOR WATER SOLUBLE CUTTING FLUID

ULTIMATE SELECTION GUIDE FOR WATER SOLUBLE CUTTING FLUID

Enquire now

To know more about the cost optimization opportunities that we can offer

Enquire now

Water-soluble cutting fluids or oils are types of cutting fluids that form a milky white emulsion when mixed with water. Within Water soluble coolant, there is a classification called as

 

1) semi-synthetic cutting oils containing 30% to 50% mineral oils, 

2) Heavy duty water-soluble cutting fluids contain around 50% to 80% mineral oils. 


Semi-synthetic oils form a translucent tint when mixed with water. Water-based cutting oils are the most popular cutting fluids since they offer the combined advantages of lubrication and coolants. 

 

Therefore, water-soluble cutting fluids are used in a wide range of machining and grinding applications. That said, selecting the proper cutting fluid to cater to unique operations is necessary. We have created a holistic guide to cutting fluid selection. 


Here is how you select the suitable water-soluble cutting fluid


A. Properties of water-soluble cutting fluid


An ideal water-based cutting fluid should exhibit the following properties. 

  • It should have excellent bio stability to prevent bacterial growth
  • It should have a low viscosity to flow above the workpiece easily. 
  • It should have a non-foaming tendency. 
  • It should be stable at high temperatures. 
  • It should be odourless to avoid foul smells, even at high temperatures. 
  • It should have a high heat absorption rate to absorb the heat generated during the cutting operation. 
  • It should be transparent so that the operator can easily see the cutting area. 
  • It should be harmless to the operator. 


B. Water-soluble Cutting Fluid Applications


As discussed earlier, water-based cutting fluids find applications across diverse industries and processes due to their versatility. Some of its typical applications are as follows. 


1. As a coolant

 

It is used to cool the cutting tool, job, and chips.


2. As a lubricant


Water-soluble cutting fluids are used as lubricants for the tool's effortless movement on the job and reduce the cutting force. 


3. For flushing action


These cutting fluids are also used  for flushing action to wash off chips and get a better surface finish.


C. Selection criteria for water-soluble cutting fluid


Cutting fluids play an essential role in the cutting operation and are given their importance in such applications. It is crucial to have a thorough understanding of precisely what you need.  Here are some key pointers to consider when selecting a water-soluble cutting fluid. 


1. Type of machining action


The selection of the right cutting fluid depends on the type of machining action you are undertaking. Since cutting fluids are not only used for cutting applications, it is better to define what kind of machining action you will conduct. With different machining actions, the role of cutting fluids changes where they could be removing chips and debris or cleaning the finishing surface.


2. Storage and handling


Adequate storage and handling of the water-soluble cutting oils are essential as it impacts their performance. A general rule of thumb is to store these fluids in drums made of non-reactive materials, protected from sunlight and extreme temperatures and away from oxidising agents.


3. Properties of cutting fluid


Properties of cutting fluids play a critical role in the selection criteria as different fluids with unique properties will have distinctive reactions with metals. For instance, synthetic cutting fluids are more compatible with non-ferrous settings. Thus, as an operator, it is imperative to conduct thorough research on each fluid and ensure it aligns with the machining operation. 
Apart from these guidelines, the operator should also consider the cooling effect required, working temperature, etc. These pointers will give an operator a better insight into what type of cutting fluid will be compatible with the action of machining needed. 

Also read

Heavy duty water soluble cutting fluid benefits, types, applications and requirements

To wrap up 


Water-soluble cutting fluids are an essential part of any machining operation. However, understanding the different properties and selection criteria for water-soluble cutting fluid is critical for any machining operation. When it comes to high-precision machining, having the proper water-soluble cutting fluid would make a significant difference.
Castrol provides a wide range of high-performance cutting fluid types catering to different kinds of machining operations. The correct cutting fluid will enhance efficiency and protect machinery from extensive wear and tear.    

Enquire now