Considerations for Choosing a Coolant for metal working process

Different metal working processes have varying cooling and lubrication needs. Coolants have many properties that increase their efficiency, extend their life, and minimize the potential to damage tools and products. Therefore, when choosing a coolant, many factors need to be considered. These considerations include:

• Tramp oil rejection
• Ability to settle out solids
• Bacterial resistance
• Corrosion and rust resistance
• Emulsification capability
• Foaming nature and resistance
• Optimal coolant life
• Longevity of coolant as measured against current industrial standards
• Cost of coolant
• Chemical restrictions and reactivity of coolant
• Lubricating quality
• Biodegradability
• Recyclability of coolant
• Capacity of recycled coolant to prevent galvanic attack
• Water compatibility and requirements: pH, deionized water requirements, mineral content and hardness
• History of dermatitis