24/04/2026
Lubricant for thread cutting
The right lubricant for every application
Thread cutting is a chip-forming machining process in which a tool – such as a tap for internal threads or a die for external threads – removes material from the workpiece to create precise thread profiles.
When cutting a thread, enormous forces act on the tap: The tool must remove material, manage chip formation and, simultaneously, cut the thread profile precisely. Without lubrication, high friction and localised heat build-up occur, which has several negative effects: the cutting edges can wear out quickly, the surface of the thread becomes rough, and burrs or irregular flanks form. These defects result in a thread with poor dimensional accuracy.
Cutting Oil N3S
VÖLKEL N3S is a high-quality universal cutting oil based on natural individual components. Mineral oil-free and formulated from renewable raw materials. This cutting oil is not only ideal for thread cutting, but can equally be used for drilling, reaming, broaching, countersinking, turning and milling.
Due to its viscosity, it is also particularly suitable for use on machines employing minimum quantity lubrication (MQL). Cutting oil N3S is an industrial product developed specifically for machining high-alloy and stainless steels, chrome-nickel steels, titanium or manganese-carbon steels.
Cutting Gel V4S
The thread-cutting gel in a plastic tube is the ideal all-rounder for mobile use and on-site assembly work. The tube fits easily into any toolbox or tool bag, and the V4S cutting gel can be applied with ease and pinpoint accuracy. Thanks to its good adhesion, it is also suitable for use in particularly deep and hard-to-reach areas.
Advantage over cutting oil: No run-off, better adhesion to the tool. Advantage over cutting paste: More flexible adaptation to the tool cutting edge and workpiece. A practical aid for industry, DIY and crafts: Easy to use, clean dispensing, space-saving. Suitable for machining high-alloy and stainless steels as well as cast iron, non-ferrous metals and aluminium.
Cutting Paste V4G
Cutting pastes are always the preferred choice for thread cutting when standard cutting oils reach their limits – particularly under difficult machining conditions, in awkward positions or under high loads, such as when cutting particularly large threads.
This thread-cutting paste is based on waxes and petroleum jelly with carefully balanced additives. This ensures low tool wear and excellent surface finish even during difficult manual thread-cutting operations. In addition to high-alloy and stainless steels, the V4G cutting paste can also be used to machine cast iron, non-ferrous metals and aluminium.
The three key functions of a lubricant in thread cutting
1. Lubricating effect = reduction of friction
Without lubrication, high friction occurs between the tool and the workpiece, requiring greater force during thread cutting. A lubricant forms a thin lubricating film between the tool and the workpiece, thereby enabling a smoother cut and requiring less force (torque). Lubricants reduce the load along the cutting zone and minimise thermally induced wear.
2. Heat dissipation = cooling and thermal stability
Friction generates heat, which can lead to the tool overheating and the softening or annealing of cutting edges. Cutting oils and lubricants can absorb heat and carry it away from the cutting zone. They help to lower the temperature generated during thread cutting. The lubricant thus protects both the tool and the workpiece.
3. Improved thread quality
Lower friction and reduced adhesion at the cutting edge result in smoother flanks, fewer burrs and more precise thread profiles. Lubrication prevents rough thread flanks, resulting in clean-cut surfaces with a significantly improved surface finish.