Recommendations For Metal Cutting Fluids, Where Parts Are Going To Weld Shop?

I can remember seeing a system that used an air mist to cool & lubricate the cutting tool. This used a very small amount of cutting fluid.

Can't remember what the system was called, I think I'm getting too old or too sober.

I run a machine shop and we dont use coolant all the time.If your using a good insurt the right rpm and travel speed, we turn 4140, mild steel and Flexor shaft material daily with out coolant and then stright to the welding shop

I think you can probably get away with machining metal using throwaway tipped tools, that will cut metal without coolant, they also cut down on setting times when a tool needs sharpening, but then you may already be using this type of tool?

Bangorjohn -> yes we are currently using throwaway tipped tools, but the manufacturer rep. is very sure that coolant is needed to ensure an accurate hole diameter. We are using a Renishaw Tool Setting System and that part does work very well. I will approach the manufacturer rep. again and maybe do some trials. Although this may work on our CNC machine center, I still have to contend with the cutting fluid used in the band saw, for parts going to the weld shop.....

I strongly recommend cleaning all parts to be welded, not because of having added cutting fluid, but because any contaminant runs the risk of botching up the weld.

I agree completely. The weld area should be cleaned prior to welding; primarily if not solely for weld integrity/consistency.

There are many organic/water soluble cutting fluids available today. Some are better than others.

As for safety of welder from fume inhalation: any weld shop should have adequate ventilation in place. This may be as much as a simple fan or hood configuration. Fluids and safety would not be my greatest concern.

For organic cutting fluids, or other products, contact Fuchs Lubricant Co @ 800-722-9034 x7042. They are one of the few who have organic products in the USA.

Try UNIST for a low volume coolant solution. We use a product called Cool Mist in our regular misters. If the MSDS is to correct it has no harmful effects.