Cutting fluids are essential for metalworking processes such as drilling, milling, and turning. These fluids are used to cool and lubricate the cutting tool and workpiece, improve surface finish, and prolong tool life. To enhance the performance of cutting fluids, additives are often added. Cutting fluid additives are chemicals blended into the base fluid to provide additional properties such as improved lubrication, better cooling, rust protection, and reduced foaming.

Some of the most common additives and their benefits are:

PH Balancers

PH balancers are additives that help maintain the PH level of the cutting fluid. The ideal PH level for cutting fluids is usually between 8.5 and 9.5. If the PH level of the cutting fluid becomes too high or too low, it can cause problems such as rusting, poor lubrication, and reduced tool life. PH balancers ensure that the cutting fluid remains at the optimal PH level, which improves the fluid’s performance and longevity.

Corrosion Inhibitors

Corrosion inhibitors are additives that help prevent the formation of rust on the metal surface. Rust can cause pitting, staining, and other surface defects that can affect the quality of the finished product. Corrosion inhibitors form a protective layer on the metal surface, which prevents the entry of oxygen and moisture. This layer also provides lubrication and reduces friction between the cutting tool and the workpiece, which in turn improves the tool life and surface finish.

Deodorizers

Deodorizers are additives that help reduce or eliminate foul odors that may be produced during the metalworking process. Some cutting fluids may produce unpleasant smells due to the presence of microorganisms, decomposition of organic matter, or other factors. Deodorizers neutralize the odor-causing compounds and leave the cutting fluid smelling fresh and clean. This improves the working conditions for operators and makes the workplace more pleasant.

Biocides

Biocides are additives that help prevent the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microorganisms in cutting fluids. Microbial growth can cause the formation of foul odors, corrosion, and health hazards for workers. Biocides help maintain the cleanliness and stability of the cutting fluid by controlling the growth of microorganisms. This, in turn, helps to improve the performance and longevity of the cutting fluid.

Anti-Foaming Agents

Anti-foaming agents are additives that help reduce or prevent the formation of foam in cutting fluids. Foam can cause reduced performance, increased maintenance costs, and health hazards for workers. Anti-foaming agents break down the surface tension of the cutting fluid, which reduces the formation of foam. This helps to maintain the stability and performance of the cutting fluid.

In conclusion, cutting fluid additives provide additional properties such as improved lubrication, better cooling, rust protection, and reduced foaming. However, the type and amount of additive required depends on the specific machining application and the properties of the base fluid. Therefore, choosing and using the suitable additive in the correct concentration is vital to achieving optimal results.