Fluids and coolants are essential for machining, manufacturing, and all sorts of industrial operations. These key tools help reduce friction while adding lubrication, preventing corrosion, and assisting in debris removal. Whether using a fluid or coolant in CNC machining, metalworking, or any number of industrial equipment maintenance tasks, the right coolant will improve the life of your tools, your operational efficiency, and your workplace safety while ensuring that you produce high-quality results.
At BlackHawk Industrial, we have a broad selection of fluids and coolants to ensure you can access the exact solution for your specific, unique needs based on your application, equipment, and workflow.
Choosing the Right Fluids and Coolants For Your Needs
The best fluid or coolant for your needs depends on a number of different factors, including the type of application, whether it's compatible with the material, how efficiently it needs to cool, and the impact on the environment. Here are a few factors to think about when making your selection:
Machining and Metalworking Fluids
These fluids are designed to reduce friction, cool the cutting surface, and assist with metal chip evacuation during operation.
Water-Soluble Fluids
These fluids provide efficient cooling during high-speed cutting operations and can be easily cleaned with water.
Synthetic Coolants
These are ideal for jobs like grinding, precision machining, and high-temperature applications that need additional cooling support.
Semi-Synthetic Fluids
This option typically strikes a good balance between lubrication and cooling so you can extend the life of your tool while protecting your workpiece.
Industrial Equipment Coolants
These coolants run through HVAC systems, compressors, and heavy machinery to regulate temperatures and prevent overheating.
Glycol-Based Coolants
These coolants have strong anti-freeze properties and heat dissipation during extreme conditions.
Dielectric Fluids
These are used in EDM (Electrical Discharge Machining) to help insulate and cool electrodes during operation.
Lubrication and Anti-Corrosion Fluids
Machine oils, hydraulic fluids, and rust inhibitors all fall under this category. They help reduce wear and tear and friction on moving parts during operation and create a protective barrier to prevent rust and oxidation.
Food-Grade and Biodegradable Coolants
These special formulations are for environmentally sensitive work like food processing and eco-friendly manufacturing operations. These non-toxic, low-impact formulas help companies stay in compliance with safety and environmental standards.
Pro Tips for Fluids and Coolants
Match Your Fluid To Your Process - Different operations, for example, milling and grinding, will require special formulations and specific products.
Maintain Proper Fluid Concentration - Overly diluting your fluids will reduce their effectiveness, but under-diluting will lead to residue buildup and impede operation.
Monitor pH and Contaminant Levels - Keeping your pH balanced and staying on top of contamination will help avoid bacterial growth, foaming, and damage to your machinery.
Use Rust Inhibitors for Extended Protection - Rust inhibitors will give you long-term protection to maintain your machinery and tooling integrity.
Dispose and Recycle Properly - Reduce your environmental impact by disposing of all of your fluids and coolants properly.
Fluid and Coolant Care and Maintenance
Caring for your fluids and coolants will help them stay effective and protect your equipment over its lifespan.
Filter and Replace Regularly - Depending on the equipment, the type of coolant or fluid, and its maintenance schedule, either filter to remove contaminants and debris or change the fluid entirely to keep your performance high.
Check Coolant Concentration Levels - Some fluids must be diluted to function optimally. Check the manufacturer's guide to make sure that you are making the correct adjustments to keep your equipment running smoothly.
Store Fluids in Controlled Conditions - Storing coolants and fluids in environments where the temperatures fluctuate to extremes or they are exposed to UV light will cause rapid degradation and reduce their performance.
Inspect All Pumps, Hoses, and Reservoirs - You can avoid leaks, clogs, and losses of pressure by inspecting all of the components of your coolant system.
Why Purchase Fluids & Coolants from BlackHawk Industrial?
At BlackHawk Industrial, we distinguish ourselves as the #1 choice for industrial manufacturers who require technical service and production savings. We are their “across-the-production-floor” partner, delivering value through product and supply chain performance that lowers their total cost of production.
We offer a full range of coolants and fluids from the most respected manufacturers in the industry, and our experts are available to help make recommendations based on your specific needs.
Fluids and Coolants FAQ
How do I know which coolant is right for my machining work?
There are a number of different ways to figure that out, starting with the manufacturer's recommendations. You'll find that water-soluble fluids are preferred for high-speed machining, while an oil-based coolant will provide long-lasting lubrication for heavy-duty cutting. Determining which is right for you will depend on a number of factors.
How often should I change the coolant in my machines?
Each machine should have a coolant replacement schedule, which will typically be based on the number of operational hours but will also vary depending on the contamination present in the coolant. Depending on whether or not you filter your coolant intermittently will also impact your replacement schedule.
Can I mix different types of coolants?
It's not a good idea to mix coolants, as it can lead to damage to your machine, degraded performance, and other issues. Follow your equipment manufacturer's guidelines on the right coolant to use, and stick to their recommendations.
What's the difference between synthetic, semi-synthetic, and soluble coolants?
Synthetic coolants provide the maximum amount of cooling and cut down on residue buildup. Semi-synthetic coolants balance cooling and lubrication, while soluble coolants are geared toward lubrication over cooling.
Are there environmentally friendly coolants available?
There are many biodegradable and food-grade coolants that you can choose from for use in your operations that will help you focus on eco-friendly operations without compromising on your performance.
