TPT November 2015

Article

Quaker Chemical Corporation

However, in a broader definition, microemulsions also can include stable transparent or translucent dispersions with very small sized (<500nm diameter) dispersed droplets suspended in the water phase that are too small to be observed even when viewed under high magnification. Solution synthetic fluids are typically composed of 15-35 per cent emulsifiers, rust inhibitors, dispersants, boundary lubricants

Figure 4: Water-based thread cutting fluids

and extreme pressure lubricants, 10-25 per cent polymeric water soluble lubricants, and 40-50 per cent water. When mixed with water such fluids give a stable clear solution. Since all or the majority of the components of a clear solution synthetic fluid are solvated by the water phase, no observable droplets are seen when viewed under high magnification. The types of fluids and photomicrographs of each are shown in Figure 4. In considering the performance properties of these different types of fluids, it has been found that macroemulsions typically offer higher levels of lubrication and friction reducing properties with lower cooling and heat removal. Conversely, solution type fluids tend to offer lower levels of lubrication and more efficient heat removal. However, clear or translucent microemulsion fluids such as Quakercool ® 750 TP offer a unique combination of highly effective lubrication, and also highly effective heat removing capability, thus providing the opportunity for further optimisation of many thread cutting processes. In addition, Quakercool ® 750 TP brings notable environmental and sustainability benefits to a thread cutting process. As a microemulsion fluid, it shows improved process consistency and stability, as well as lower fluid consumption caused by chip drag out and oil loss. The latter feature is a clear industry trend driven by the economic gains obtained from lower fluid consumption and reduced waste. Summary The lubrication and cooling properties of a thread cutting fluid will significantly impact the resulting cutting insert wear and part quality obtained in the thread cutting operation. Quakercool ® 750 TP, as a microemulsion type water-based fluid, offers the optimum combination of both effective lubrication and cooling and thus offers the potential to further improve and optimise the productivity and quality obtained in thread cutting of high strength pipe connections. In addition, this product, being a synthetic microemulsion, provides sustainability benefits with lower consumption levels, reduced waste levels and cleaner connections, while showing a broad range of water quality tolerance.

The machining tests conducted using AISI 4140 steel showed the benefit obtained during use of this product with regard to tool cleanliness and reduced tool wear.

Quaker Chemical Corporation 1 Quaker Park, 901 E Hector Street, Conshohocken, PA 19428-2380, USA Email: info@quakerchem.com Website: www.quakerchem.com

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N ovember 2015