Coolant is often an overlooked part of a milling machine operation. For your milling machine coolant to be effective when protecting your machinery, it needs to be delivered to the right parts of your machine. Fortunately, there are several delivery methods that you can choose from. The method of delivery that you use should be based on the circumstances under which you use your machinery. Choosing the wrong pressure for your tool will cause part damage and wear.

Air Cooling

Air is one delivery method that not only keeps the part cool but also cleans it. Air is also a free resource, and you don't have to worry about it escaping and causing damage to other equipment. However, the air coolant is not as efficient as water-based or oil-based coolants. 

If you have a part that is very sensitive, you may want to use air as a cooling method. Other delivery methods can be too harsh on delicate parts. Direct coolants can cause a part to expand rapidly, which can cause it to contort. 

Flooding

Flooding is another delivery method. It creates lubricity and also helps clean the parts that are being lubricated. Flushing chips helps avoid chip recutting. When a chip is accidentally recut, it often causes damage to the tool. 

Fine Mist

Mist is a common delivery method used to cool milling machine parts. It is low pressure and is useful when you're not concerned about chip evacuation. You do not have to worry about the tool and part undergoing additional stress as a result of the mist delivery method. 

Low-Quantity

To save money, you might want to use a minimum quantity lubricant. Not only will this approach save money, but is also better for the environment. This type of lubricant is applied as a mist and will only provide enough coolant so that the equipment can function properly. 

High-Pressure

Sometimes, an oil or moisture needs to be delivered at 1,000 PSI. This is one of the best options for chip removal because it blasts the chips away really quickly. This method cools the part much more quickly. However, with parts that are more fragile, there's a potential for the part to also break. It is used for milling operations where the parts are already under high pressure, such as deep drilling operations. Each type of delivery method is different, so make sure to choose the right one for your milling operation.