Thread: Coolant

Hello

I've been using Hocut 787B coolant in my CNC mill and am just about to run out. In general I've been happy, no new life forms in the sump etc but it leaves a sticky film when it dries and I think I may be allergic to it.

I've seen on some of the US based lists that people recommend Tri-cool TC-1 synthetic coolant. Does any anybody in Australia on the list use this coolant? If so are you happy with it? Does it leave any build up when it dries?

Regards, Christian

Don't know anything about that coolant, get the impression a lot of it is like people rattling on about their favorite motor oils. How long are you leaving in the machine to get allergic reactions?

Use Shell here for a CNC lathe, don't see much in the way of sticky residue....although it's good at softening and eventually removing paint! They recommend monthly changes, I leave it substantially longer and top up as required.

The Hocut hasn't been removing any paint and I haven't had the trouble of monthly changes. I keep on top of the ratios with a refractometer. The allergic reaction is a bit of dermatitis which may be the coolant but could also be a number of other things in the workshop. So figured if I have to buy some new coolant i'd investigate other options. In the workshop I try to use the least toxic stuff that still gets the job done...

We use Castrol Clearedge 880 at work.
Relatively cheap compared to other brands and has good corrosion resistance and tank life.
Will go off if there is excess oil buildup in the coolant tank though, but so will any cutting fluid.
Run it at 5% mix for turning based coolant.
Higher concentrate can remove paint.
If your getting a buildup it maybe that your mix is too thick perhaps.
And off coolant gives me dermatitis too.