Meeting Aerospace Material Challenges with Supercritical CO₂ Coolant Technology

In the aerospace industry, machining high-performance materials like titanium and aluminum alloys is no small feat. These metals are integral to aircraft and spacecraft manufacturing due to their exceptional strength-to-weight ratios, but they also pose significant challenges during the machining process. Heat generation, tool wear, and surface finish issues are common obstacles, especially when working with alloys that demand the highest levels of precision.

Fortunately, Pure-Cut® supercritical CO₂ technology is overcoming these challenges, revolutionizing the aerospace CNC machining space by providing a cleaner, cooler, and more efficient way to handle some of the toughest materials in the industry.

The Challenges of Machining Aerospace Materials

Titanium and aluminum alloys are widely used in aerospace applications due to their ability to withstand extreme stresses and environmental conditions. However, these materials are difficult to machine, especially when traditional coolant systems fall short. In aerospace CNC machining, excessive heat buildup can cause tool wear and deformation of the material, leading to costly downtime and decreased productivity. Surface finishes may suffer, leading to additional finishing processes, while the environmental impact of using conventional coolants is also a concern.

For aerospace manufacturers, finding a machining solution that increases efficiency while improving precision and reducing waste is key to staying competitive.

Pure-Cut® uses supercritical CO₂ (scCO₂) as a cutting-edge coolant and lubricant, making it ideal for machining aerospace materials. Unlike traditional flood coolants, which can generate excess heat and require extensive waste management, scCO₂ works by lowering cutting temperatures and reducing friction between the tool and the workpiece. This not only improves the machining process but also results in several key benefits:

• Cleaner Machining: scCO₂ eliminates the risk of contamination by reducing the need for additional cleaning processes. It minimizes burr formation and ensures that aerospace components meet the required surface finish specifications.
• Extended Tool Life: By maintaining an optimal cutting temperature, Pure-Cut® reduces tool wear. This extends the life of cutting tools, reducing the need for frequent replacements and lowering operating costs.
• Faster Cutting Speeds: Pure-Cut® allows for higher cutting speeds and feed rates, leading to shorter cycle times and higher productivity. This is crucial for meeting the demands of the aerospace industry, where time is always of the essence.

Benefits of Pure-Cut® in Aerospace CNC Machining

Pure-Cut® has been shown to offer significant improvements in the machining of aerospace materials, especially titanium and aluminum alloys. Some of the standout benefits include:

• Improved Surface Finish: When machining materials like titanium and aluminum, achieving a smooth, clean surface is essential. Pure-Cut® technology minimizes burr formation and surface defects, delivering better surface finishes without the need for additional downstream operations.
• Higher Dimensional Accuracy: Pure-Cut® ensures that aerospace parts are machined with tighter tolerances. This precision is critical when working with components that need to meet the stringent requirements of the aerospace industry.
• Cost Savings: By improving tool life and reducing cycle times, Pure-Cut® offers cost savings over traditional coolant systems. Aerospace manufacturers can reduce their material and labor costs, while increasing throughput.

Why Pure-Cut® Is Perfect for Aerospace CNC Machining

With its ability to handle titanium, aluminum, and other aerospace alloys more efficiently than traditional methods, Pure-Cut® provides a competitive edge for manufacturers. By lowering operating costs, improving productivity, and enhancing the precision of each part, Pure-Cut® technology is reshaping the landscape of aerospace CNC machining.

Ready to improve your aerospace CNC machining? 

To learn more about how Pure-Cut® can optimize your machining process, download our latest white paper. If you’re in the Metro-Detroit area, join us at our upcoming live demonstration at our Canton, MI office on June 12 - learn more here.