Selection of cutting fluid for end mills in titanium alloy processing

In titanium alloy processing, the selection of cutting fluid for end mills needs to comprehensively consider factors such as lubricity, cooling performance, rust prevention, environmental friendliness, and health and safety. The following is a specific analysis:

Key points for selecting cutting fluid

Lubrication and cooling performance:

Titanium alloy processing requires cutting fluid to have strong lubricity to reduce tool wear, and at the same time, it needs good cooling properties to prevent the workpiece surface from burning. It is recommended to use fully synthetic cutting fluids or emulsions containing extreme pressure additives, such as extreme pressure emulsions or extreme pressure water-soluble cutting fluids.

Rust prevention and cleaning performance:

The cutting fluid should have anti-rust functions to protect the workpiece and the machine tool, and at the same time, it should have excellent cleaning properties to ensure the surface finish of the workpiece. Products with low foaming, low volatility, low oxidation and less likely to form colloids should be selected.

Environmental Protection and Health Safety

The cutting fluid should be low volatile, low toxic and odorless to avoid posing a threat to the health of the operators. It is recommended to use environmentally friendly fully synthetic cutting fluids, such as 8050T titanium-aluminum alloy cutting fluid.

Recommended types of cutting fluid

Fully synthetic cutting fluid

For instance, the 8050T titanium-aluminum alloy cutting fluid adopts a new technology formula, free of mineral oil and harmful substances. It features excellent lubrication and cooling properties, rust prevention and cleaning capabilities, and is safe, environmentally friendly and cost-effective.

Extreme pressure emulsions and extreme pressure water-soluble cutting fluids:

For rough machining, 10%-15% extreme pressure emulsion can be selected. For finish machining, extreme pressure water-soluble cutting fluid is recommended. This type of cutting fluid contains extreme pressure additives, which can enhance the lubrication performance under high temperature and high pressure.

Extreme pressure cutting oil

It is suitable for the finishing stage, providing a strong and tough oil film to protect the cutting edge, reducing cutting force and temperature, extending tool life and improving processing quality.

Precautions for the use of cutting fluid

Concentration control

For titanium alloy processing, it is recommended that the concentration of cutting fluid be ≥10% to ensure lubrication and cooling effects. The concentration needs to be tested regularly and the original solution replenished.

Flow and pressure

During processing, it is necessary to ensure that the cutting fluid flow is sufficient and adopt a high-pressure and high-flow method to enhance thermal stability. Recommended flow rate ≥30-40L/min, cooling hydraulic pressure 1.5-3MPa.

Safety protection:

Operators should wear protective equipment to prevent the cutting fluid from coming into contact with the skin and eyes. After processing is completed, the workpiece must be thoroughly cleaned to prevent residual cutting fluid from affecting performance.