No professional athlete would hit the field without testing their best plays \u2014 and the same goes for metalworking fluid. Before a company charges their sumps with a new metalworking fluid, they\u2019ll want to undergo a thorough testing trial. They know choosing the wrong one can wreak havoc on metalworking shops, leaving residue in sumps, corroding machinery or parts, and even contributing to cases of dermatitis.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
That\u2019s why the testing period<\/a> is critical. It\u2019s an opportunity to make sure a metalworking fluid will meet a shop\u2019s specifications and needs. <\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Though the ASTM International (formerly known as the American Society for Testing and Materials) offers numerous testing standards<\/a>, metalworking shops can develop their own rules for testing trials to avoid being caught on the blind side.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n <\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Before bringing in new fluid to test, metalworking shops should first determine what they need from a fluid. This will help narrow down the choices for testing trials. Some details to consider are: <\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n It\u2019s also important to evaluate the existing metalworking fluid\u2019s strengths and weaknesses. For example, if tool life is subpar or a fluid develops a foul odor quickly, make sure to discuss and determine your options with a new fluid supplier.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n At the same time, before making a decision on what fluid and supplier to use, metalworking shops should collect information about foam and misting, typical fluid life with proper maintenance, fluid safety, and correct ways for disposal. <\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n <\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n Just as a coach wouldn\u2019t sign a new player without carefully evaluating their skills, metalworking shops shouldn\u2019t ignore certain indicators when testing out a new fluid. They\u2019ll want to take note of contaminants, like chips and tramp oil, that might form in the sump, and remove them as they would normally to prevent bacteria from forming.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\nPre-Game Before the Test<\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
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In the Field: Evaluating Fluid During a Testing Trial<\/h2>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n