In the field of machining, semi-synthetic cutting fluids are widely used for their excellent cooling and lubricating performance. However, the stubborn foam generated during production often troubles many companies. Foam not only causes the machining fluid to overflow the tank, leading to waste and environmental pollution, but also seriously affects cooling performance, shortens tool life, and can even cause pump cavitation and equipment monitoring failures, directly affecting the stable operation of the production line and machining accuracy.
Chemi Tech has conducted an in-depth analysis of the root causes of foaming in semi-synthetic cutting fluids. Foam generation is usually closely related to the surfactants in the system, shear from circulation pumps, water quality, and contaminants introduced during machining. Traditional defoaming methods often treat the symptoms rather than the cause, and adding ordinary silicone-based products may create secondary problems such as fish eyes and oil floating. To address these market pain points, we developed the Chemi Tech AF series of defoamers specifically for semi-synthetic systems. This product uses a special modified polyether and organosilicon composite technology, offering excellent compatibility and long-lasting foam suppression. It can quickly break existing foam and inhibit foam regeneration over the long term, with no negative impact on system clarity or machining performance.
Our solution is clear and easy to implement. The first step is problem diagnosis and sample matching: the customer provides a sample of the foaming fluid or a detailed description of the working conditions, and our technical team conducts a free assessment and recommends the most suitable AF series model along with an initial dosage suggestion. The second step is on-site lab testing and process optimization: we guide the customer to conduct stepwise addition tests beside the circulation tank, observe the immediate defoaming effect and durability, and fine-tune the dosing point and ratio based on the actual results, and it is usually recommended to add the defoamer at the return port or when new fluid is replenished. The third step is ongoing follow-up and effect consolidation: we establish a usage record and conduct regular follow-ups to ensure the defoaming effect remains stable over the long term, and we provide adjustment suggestions as production changes.
For example, a company in East China specializing in the manufacture of precision parts was once deeply troubled by foam. Its high-speed machining centers, when using semi-synthetic cutting fluid, suffered severe foam overflow and had to be shut down frequently for cleaning. After adopting Chemi Tech AF-203 defoamer and applying it according to the three-step method described above, the foam was significantly controlled on the day of addition and the fluid level returned to stability. After two weeks of continuous operation, the foam problem was completely resolved, the workshop environment improved, and the number of equipment alarms caused by foam dropped to zero, effectively safeguarding production continuity and product yield.
Choosing Chemi Tech means not only choosing a product, but also choosing a targeted solution and ongoing technical support. We are committed to helping you bid farewell to foam troubles for good, making the machining process smoother and costs more controllable.