Slipmedel

Slipmedel is a Swedish term for substances that reduce friction and wear between surfaces or facilitate movement during processing. They are used to cool, lubricate, or suspend abrasive materials in a wide range of industrial and craft applications. Slipmedel can be liquids, pastes, emulsions, or dry powders, depending on the process requirements.

Common forms include cutting fluids and lubricants used in metalworking to protect tools and improve surface finish; grinding slurries, which are suspensions of abrasive grains in a liquid used to remove material; and polishing pastes that contain fine abrasives in a viscous medium to achieve a smooth surface.

Slipmedel are selected for properties such as chemical compatibility with the workpiece, lubrication under load, heat dissipation, and ease of cleaning after processing. They may be formulated as oil-based, water-based, or synthetic systems, and can include additives to prevent corrosion, inhibit rust, or reduce wear.

Handling and safety depend on the chemical composition. Some slipmedel are flammable, irritant, or hazardous; appropriate personal protective equipment, ventilation, and disposal according to local regulations are advised.

See also: lubricant, cutting fluid, grinding slurry, polishing compound, tribology.