Fluid technologies support machining innovation

METALWORKING fluid suppliers have been challenged to meet evolving trends – from increased regulatory activity to lighter weight material requirements for the automotive industry – that has meant heft investments in developing, formulating and improving new and innovative fluid technology. This has meant significant advancements to meet the requirements of challenging machining operation.

According to global leader in process fluids, Quaker Chemical Corporation (NYSE: KWR), advancements are so specific, that even having the right cutting fluid recommended for a particular machining process can dramatically increase efficiency and productivity. Understanding how each component of the metalworking fluid technology is interrelated is critical to a strong metalworking process.

An on-site CNC machining capability is Quaker Chemical's strategic approach to serving the metalworking market through development of new metalworking technology, in-house R&D testing, comparison of competitive products and recommendations or changes to formulations based on data-driven matrices. 

Quaker not only has technical knowledge and a dedicated laboratory, but also the capabilities to replicate and study the metal removal process using CNC machines allows for a crucial industry advantage. The company has network of in-house CNC machining centers in technical hubs in U.S., Europe, South America and Asia that offer technical expertise and hands on experience to develop and test its metalworking fluids through challenging machining operations similar to those performed by its customers.

As metalworking fluid technology evolves, these facilities enable Quaker to study the use of its products in different operating conditions and to measure their performance on key operational parameters, such as cutting forces and energy, tool wear rates, machined surface quality, and machining vibrations and chatter. 

"Whether it is maximizing fluid performance or developing new technologies for machining next generation material, our global technical center capabilities and expertise enable us to take that first step to a better understanding of our customer's needs," states Johan Hooyman, R&D Global Director of R&D.

Quaker also collaborates with customers, universities and trade associations on various machining projects to develop optimized processes through careful consideration of elements including machining parameters, tooling, fluid and fluid delivery systems.

With an ability to replicate real-life industry applications across a wide range of environments, Quaker has an in-depth understanding of the operational challenges of its customers and can deliver a number of effective technological innovations in new or difficult-to-machine areas. These areas include Compacted Graphite Iron (CGI) machining, valve seat machining, high speed aluminium machining, and Mapal reaming.