CDT’s Lab Evaluates Blaser Coolants in Flute Grinding Applications
At Continental Diamond Tool (CDT), we pride ourselves on pushing the limits of grinding technology. In one recent trial, The Grinding Chronicles team has partnered with Blaser Swisslube to test the performance of different coolants on our EVO hybrid bond grinding wheels. This experiment in CDT’s grinding lab aims to determine which coolant best enhances cutting performance, tool life, and workpiece quality in precision flute grinding applications.
Parameters for Success
Leading this effort is CDT Application Engineer Harrison Sheldon and CDT Engineering Consultant Jon VanSant, who are testing three different Blaser fluids under controlled conditions. They are measuring key parameters such as power, force, and grinding wheel wear while closely inspecting the visual quality of the workpiece for signs of burn or other surface finish issues.
“Our focus is on how the grinding wheel cuts, wears, and the resulting workpiece quality,” Jon explains. “By measuring parameters like power and force, we aim to collect data that can objectively compare the performance of each coolant under consistent conditions.”
Three representatives from Blaser joined Harrison and Jon last week at CDT’s lab: Senior Application Engineer Brett Reynolds from the New York plant, and Grinding Business Development Managers Tom Cappadona, also from New York, and Simon Stalder, representing Blaser’s headquarters in Switzerland. For this trial, Blaser has provided the coolant fluids, while CDT is supplying the EVO hybrid bond grinding wheels and the data collection equipment in the grinding lab. This setup ensures a comprehensive, scientific approach to analyzing performance with these coolants.
“When Tom approached us about this trial, we saw an opportunity to try something new with the equipment in our grinding lab,” says Harrison. “We’re excited to see how each formula stacks up to help the team at Blaser guide their customers in optimizing their process.”
Simon Stalder expressed his enthusiasm for the trial results, eager to share the findings with his engineering team in Switzerland. These results will provide valuable insights into how Blaser’s latest coolant technology enhances grinding performance and efficiency. As a global leader in metalworking fluids, Blaser delivers tailored formulas for every material, industry, and application.
Benefits of a Dynamic Testing Environment
The dynamic testing environment in CDT's grinding lab allows Harrison and Jon to adjust parameters on the fly, testing variables such as feed rate while maintaining consistent wheel speed. This enables them to evaluate the optimal feed rate range for each coolant type.
“One key advantage of running trials in the lab is the ability to collect objective data in controlled conditions,” says Jon. “Unlike in the field, where varied operator techniques can affect outcomes, our lab setting allows us to isolate variables and focus on actionable insights.”
While Blaser has come to CDT's lab primarily for the technical instrumentation and grinding know-how of our team, customers do not have to travel to take advantage of the lab’s capabilities. “CDT’s grinding lab is exceptionally flexible due to its portability. We frequently gather data directly from our customers’ processes by installing equipment at their site and analyzing it in our lab,” Harrison notes, “or we can simulate their operations on our machines and collaborate remotely to tweak their process.”
The expertise of Blaser’s application engineer, Brett Reynolds, has also been instrumental in these trials. “Brett brings a deep understanding of Blaser’s fluid formulation and their customer applications, which complements our grinding expertise,” adds Jon.
Trials on the Walter Helitronic Machine
As a 5-axis tool and cutter grinder, the Walter Helitronic is a purpose-built machine that is a centerpiece in CDT’s grinding lab and perfect for trials like this. Its versatility and precision are critical for evaluating different grinding configurations.
“The Walter machine is capable of thousands of functions, but it’s most commonly used for round cutting tools, making it perfect for flute grinding trials with our EVO Hybrid Bond fluting wheels,” Harrison says. “Its high precision, repeatability, and compatibility with advanced cooling systems make it the ideal platform for these tests.”
Jon elaborates, “The Walter allows us to make real-time adjustments to speed, feed rate, and pressure, which is essential for testing performance during these trials. Its automation and sensitive readings ensure accurate, repeatable results.”
The team at Blaser is currently reviewing the data gathered from last week’s trial and discussing how to incorporate the insights into future marketing and product development.
Accessing Our Grinding Lab Services
At CDT, we believe in the importance of real-world testing to optimize grinding processes and improve part quality. Our grinding lab is available for trials like these, whether you’re testing new grinding wheels or assessing some other metric of performance.
“Our team’s diverse areas of expertise ensures we can accommodate unique customer needs,” Harrison shares. “Whether it’s conducting tests in our lab or traveling to your site, we provide valuable solutions tailored to each challenge.”
If you’re interested in running a grinding trial with CDT, contact us with details about your process. We can recreate it in our lab or connect at your facility to gather data. From there, we develop testing parameters, share results, and make tailored recommendations for specific tools and production settings.
Learn more about Blaser Swisslube at:
Linkedin.com/company/blaser-swisslube
Youtube.com/user/blaserswisslube1