Machining lubrication

[RichardHarris123]

Many machining processes use some or constant lubrication, some are performed dry. Watch staffs and pivot for example. 

Is there a rule to using or not using lubricants?

[AndyGSi]

As far as I'm aware lubrication is used to dissipate heat and remove debris so it all depends what you're machining and how quickly you want to do it.

[caseback]

6 hours ago, AndyGSi said:

As far as I'm aware lubrication is used to dissipate heat and remove debris so it all depends what you're machining and how quickly you want to do it.

Yep. You can easily machine lots of materials dry if you stay within certain parameters, but machining the same material using the same tools in a high speed production environment (think cnc) you will definately want to use coolant (it's not called lubrication in machine shops).