What Are The Working Fluids Used For Wire Cutting?

Wire cutting working fluid is also known as wire cutting fluid. It is primarily used in CNC wire cutting machines, as machine tools generally require working fluids. There are mainly three types of products available on the market for users to choose from: pure oil-based, emulsified oil, and water-based.

1.Pure Oil-Based
Composed entirely of mineral oils and oil-soluble substances; it is used directly without dilution with water. Examples include extreme pressure cutting oil and EDM fluid.

2.Emulsified Oil
Emulsified oil is a product made by adding appropriate amounts of rust inhibitors and emulsifiers to base oil. It is mixed with water in a certain ratio to form an emulsion, which offers rust prevention, cleaning, and extreme pressure properties. It is used as a cooling fluid in metal processing and cutting. However, the emulsion poses certain hazards to humans and the environment.

3.Water-Based
Currently, water-based working fluids are generally used in EDM wire cutting. They are formulated with 100% water-based substances (typically soft water) and contain no mineral oil or sodium nitrite. They are non-oily, non-greasy, and can be rinsed off with water after contact with the original solution. They are environmentally friendly, non-hazardous to humans, do not produce oil stains or odors during use, remain clear and clean, can be reused, and the waste liquid can be diluted and discharged directly. Water-based fluids offer better chip removal but may cause the machine tool to lose paint more easily.

A comparison between oil-based and water-based working fluids is as follows:

1.Service Life: Oil-based fluids are durable and can generally be used for 2-3 months, while water-based fluids are less durable and can only be used for 2-4 weeks.

2.Price: Oil-based fluids are lower in price, while water-based fluids are 2-4 times more expensive.

3.Processing Effect: Water-based fluids significantly improve processing efficiency and workpiece surface smoothness compared to oil-based fluids.

4.Impact on Machine Tools: Water-based fluids are more likely to damage machine tools and cause rust, while oil-based fluids do not.

5.Cleanliness: Water-based fluids are easier to clean and leave surfaces tidy after use, while oil-based fluids are dirtier and harder to clean.

6.Suitable Users: Water-based fluids are more suitable for factories or enterprises, while oil-based fluids are mostly used in machining shops.