1070 – 03 – The Physics of Cutting Fluid Part 2
Metal surfaces, which may seem smooth to the human eye, have microscopic lumps and ridges that can be extremely difficult to cut. Breaking through these features can kick up enough heat to melt through your workpiece.
Furthermore, cutting fluid creates a film between the chip and band saw blade. This separates all the microscopic bumps in the surface and reduces friction. The components of cutting fluids, like chlorine and sulfur, also help lubricate the cut. They stand up well to the high temperatures involved in extreme metal sawing.
There are several additional factors to take into account when it comes to the heat generated by cutting operations.