I'm forwarding this from another forum.
We are a large (2000 empl, ~800 machines) automotive parts supplier. We
machine high silica aluminum alloys and high moly steel. We have tested
many, many coolants over the past 3 years. What we have found is that
Castrol Syntillo products work best for us. This is a synthetic coolant.
Different types are available for different materials. We use 9903 for
steel, and 9913 for aluminum. This coolant will not coagulate, it is clear,
it will not strip paint, it will not emulsify tramp oil, as a matter of
fact, the tramp oil (way lube, spindle oil, etc.) readily floats to the top
of the sump tank where it can easily be removed with a skimmer. It does not
develop that sewer smell if it sets for days. It is environmentally
friendly, meaning disposal costs are minimal. It lasts seemingly forever,
if properly maintained. We have seen a dramatic drop in the usage, because
in part, it doesn't carry out with the chips to the chip buggy. We have
machines now that have had the same coolant in them for 2 years. This
coolant will not turn your machine black with gunk. We were using another
brand that would actually etch the door glass and metal with a black slimy
coating, and would not come off. Tool life has increased substantially
also. Be aware, that this coolant is not cheap, but it is not outrageous
either. We have had more than excellent service from Castrol.
Ken  |