Classification of Water-Soluble MWFs
MWFs are classified based on their composition and intended application. The four main categories are:
- Vegetable-Based & Mineral Oil-Free MWF
- Mineral Oil-Based General-Purpose MWF
- Semi-Synthetic MWF
- Fully Synthetic MWF
A. Vegetable-Based & Mineral Oil-Free MWF
This category represents the new generation of sustainable and environmentally friendly fluids designed without mineral oils or harmful biocides.
Key Characteristics
- Fully vegetable-based formulation
- Free from mineral oils and formaldehyde-releasing agents
- High-performance lubrication — ideal for high-demand applications
- Easily removable residues using standard degreasers
- Excellent corrosion resistance
- Exceptional biostability ensures long service life
- Low environmental impact and waste generation
Typical Applications
- Difficult machining operations such as honing
- Processing of titanium, Inconel, stainless steel
- Suitable for medical implant manufacturing
B. Mineral Oil-Based General-Purpose MWF
Traditional fluids based on mineral oil for a wide range of standard machining operations.
Key Characteristics
- Suitable for ferrous and non-ferrous metals: iron, steel, aluminum, castings
- Balanced formulation with emulsifiers, corrosion inhibitors, and anti-foam agents
- Contains antimicrobial additives but excludes formaldehyde releasers
- Provides robust lubrication and cooling
- Long-lasting and cost-effective
Typical Applications
- General-purpose turning, milling, drilling, and grinding
- Foundry and aluminum processing operations
C. Semi-Synthetic MWF
Combines the benefits of mineral oil and synthetic fluids to offer performance and cleanliness.
Key Characteristics
- Contains mineral oils blended with synthetic additives
- Enhanced with Extreme Pressure (EP) additives
- Excellent performance on alloy steel, casting, copper, and aluminum
- Superior corrosion resistance and biostability
- Low foam — ideal for high-pressure CNC and modern machining centers
- High detergency for clean workpieces and machine surfaces
Typical Applications
- Rough and precision machining
- High-performance CNC grinding and milling
D. Fully Synthetic MWF
Transparent, mineral oil-free fluids designed for the most demanding precision grinding operations.
Key Characteristics
- No mineral oil — water-clear emulsion
- Excellent corrosion resistance and foam control
- Outstanding cooling and cleaning effect on grinding stones
- Demulsifies tramp oils for easy removal
- Environmentally sound — low waste and long-lasting
Typical Applications
- Precision grinding of iron, stainless steel, cobalt, carbide, and non-ferrous materials
- Hydrotest systems and aqueous polishing
Specialized Applications & Product Matching
| Fluid Type | Key Applications | Key Properties |
|---|---|---|
| Vegetable-Based MWF | Honing, implants, specialty alloys | Eco-friendly, high lubrication, biostable |
| Mineral Oil-Based MWF | Aluminum alloys (aviation/defense), copper | Stain-free, low oil carry-off, long service life |
| Semi-Synthetic MWF (High EP) | Rough/precision machining, grinding | High load resistance, corrosion protection, long sump life |
| Fully Synthetic Grinding | Iron alloys, cobalt, carbide | Superior corrosion control, foam suppression, stone protection |
| Brass & Copper MWF | Transfer machines, cutting non-ferrous metals | Stable emulsions, mineral-based, lubrication-focused |
Key Features Across the Product Range
Regardless of category, all MWFs are designed to meet modern machining requirements and safety standards.
Shared Benefits
- Formaldehyde-free: Compliant with modern chemical safety regulations
- Corrosion Protection: Long-term prevention against rust and oxidation
- Effective Lubrication: Adapts to different load and speed conditions
- High Biostability: Long fluid life with reduced microbial degradation
- Machining Optimization: Formulated for cutting, grinding, honing, and finishing
- Low Foaming: Ideal for high-speed and high-pressure CNC operations
- Environmental Considerations: Easy waste treatment and reduced ecological footprint
Summary Table: MWF Type vs. Application Fit
| MWF Type | Machining Difficulty | Material Compatibility | Environmental Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vegetable-Based | High | Titanium, Inconel, stainless steel, implants | Very Low |
| Mineral Oil-Based | Medium | Ferrous, non-ferrous, aluminum, copper | Moderate |
| Semi-Synthetic | Medium to High | Steel, copper, aluminum alloys | Moderate to Low |
| Fully Synthetic | High (Precision) | Iron alloys, cobalt, carbide | Low |