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Metalworking fluids (MWFs) are oils and other liquids that cool and lubricate metalwork, specifically machinery. You need to know what MWFs are and how to protect yourself while you use them.
To better understand MWFs, you need to know how to classify them. See the classification chart below.
MWF Classification | Explanation |
Straight oils | Also referred to as “neat” oil, not meant to be diluted with water. |
Soluble oils | Usually highly refined petroleum oils and emulsifiers. |
Semi-synthetic fluids | A mixture of oils, usually conventional and synthetic. |
Synthetic fluids | Fluids that usually include detergent-like components. |
If you don’t follow good hygiene practices, wear the proper PPE, or manage MWFs, you place yourself in a dangerous spot. Users who don’t take safety precautions can experience:
Under the HazCom standard, your employer must train you on:
Metalworking fluids (MWFs) are oils and other liquids that cool and lubricate metalwork, specifically machinery. You need to know what MWFs are and how to protect yourself while you use them.
To better understand MWFs, you need to know how to classify them. See the classification chart below.
MWF Classification | Explanation |
Straight oils | Also referred to as “neat” oil, not meant to be diluted with water. |
Soluble oils | Usually highly refined petroleum oils and emulsifiers. |
Semi-synthetic fluids | A mixture of oils, usually conventional and synthetic. |
Synthetic fluids | Fluids that usually include detergent-like components. |
If you don’t follow good hygiene practices, wear the proper PPE, or manage MWFs, you place yourself in a dangerous spot. Users who don’t take safety precautions can experience:
Under the HazCom standard, your employer must train you on: