POLARIS Laboratories, LLC - Metalworking Fluids Analysis

Metalworking Fluids Analysis, Metalworking Sample Analysis

Metalworking fluids, lubricants and coolants are typically oils, water soluble oils, synthetics and other specialty fluids. They are used in such manufacturing processes as machining, boring, stamping, grinding and cutting to increase lubrication, reduce wear and thermal deformation (cool), improve surface finish and flush away chips from the cutting zone. They also prevent rust and corrosion and act as release agents to prevent materials from sticking or adhering to an underlying surface.

Metalworking fluids testing ensures that fluid properties meet the requirements of the manufacturing processes in which they are being used and should take into consideration application, purpose and composition. Metalworking fluids are also tested for contamination by tramp oil, swarf (metallic cuttings from the machining process), acids and incompatible fluids and to measure additive concentrations and, in the case of water-soluble oils, water and oil mixture.

Important properties for metalworking lubricants, coolants and fluids include concentration, flash point and autogenous ignition (AIT). Concentration is measured after dilution of the fluid solution on a volumetric basis. Flash point is the lowest temperature at which a liquid can give off sufficient vapors to form an ignitable mixture in air near the surface of the liquid. Autogenous ignition (AIT) is the temperature at which ignition occurs spontaneously. Some metalworking lubricants, coolants and fluids are fire resistant, biodegradable, low foaming, or oxidation inhibiting. Others are designed specifically for automotive, transportation, aerospace or military applications.*

POLARIS Test Packages

Complete Test List with Explanations

* Contributing source: GlobalSpec Engineering Search Engine