Quaker Chemical Corporation recently introduced a new metalworking fluid technology developed specifically for machining compacted graphite iron (CGI). Quakercool 7020 CG is designed to provide excellent performance in the machining of CGI while maintaining its effectiveness with other ferrous materials along with significantly reduced tool wear rates.
The use of compacted graphite iron has increased in industry, particularly in the manufacturing of truck and automotive diesel engine blocks and cylinder heads. CGI offers a number of advantages such as improved fuel efficiency and engine performance because the higher material strength enables the production of thinner walled parts, which results in lighter weight. However, one drawback is that CGI is more difficult to machine than conventional cast iron.
Manufacturers have noted that when the same metalworking fluid is used for machining CGI in comparison to traditional cast iron, tool wear can go up as much as 90 percent, resulting in additional costs and downtime. One solution is the use of specialized cutting fluids that can mitigate the machining challenges presented by CGI.
A recent Quaker study of tool wear versus cutting distance in a turning operation of CGI showed a 32.6-percent increase in tool life when Quakercool 7020 CG was used in comparison to a conventional ferrous machining fluid. A 124-percent insert life was also seen over that obtained by dry machining.
For more information, visit www.quakerchem.com.
