Coolant for Aluminium

[mikie]

Nigel,

Just use Kero in a spray bottle.

The wet swarf can be dealt with by lighting the swarf after you finish the machining.

Only kidding about lighting the swarf. Don't want to get the greenies in the site mad.

[Nigel_B]

Hi Wallace
Thanks for the offer but the product I am using is pretty good.
Gives nice finish, doubles insert life (at least) and reduces cycle time when turning aluminium castings.
Thanks to all who suggested the hand applied type of solution, WD 40 etc.
This machine has factory fitted coolant which means it can be turned on and off in the program. I have been down the WD 40 path but it means standing at the machine to use it. I usually have 2 lathes running at the same time, sometimes 3 so I really need to be able to walk away and tend another machine.
I am using a product called Sapon GM and it works really well.
Good finish, low odour and very few marks when parts dry off.
I can see no reason to use the more expensive product I spoke of earlier.
Thanks to all of you
Nigel