Product Guide: 249-SCR & 4912-TCL Full Synthetic Metalworking Coolants

Created by Joseph Peter Tabunar, Modified on Tue, 2 Jun at 4:33 PM by Aubrey Donato

TABLE OF CONTENTS




This guide provides an overview of two full synthetic, oil-free metalworking coolant concentrates from Consultant Lubricants, Inc.:

  • 249-SCR Bio-Stable Multi-Purpose Full Synthetic Coolant

  • 4912-TCL Full Synthetic Metalworking Coolant

Both products are designed for CNC machining, grinding, and sawing applications. They are formulated to support long sump life, clean machine performance, operator comfort, and reduced maintenance requirements.

Figure 1. 249-SCR and 4912-TCL full synthetic coolant products.



Product Overview

Full synthetic coolants are oil-free coolant concentrates used to support tool life, cooling performance, corrosion protection, and cleaner machine operation.

The 249-SCR and 4912-TCL are both designed for multi-purpose shop environments, but each product has specific strengths depending on the application.

Product Comparison at a Glance

Feature

249-SCR

4912-TCL

Type

Full synthetic, oil-free

Full synthetic, oil-free

Color

Blue

Clear blue

Pounds per gallon

8.6

8.6

Flash point

None

None

pH at 10:1 concentration

9.0, varies with water

9.0–10.0, varies with water

Lubricity package

Not specified

Inversely soluble copolymer, heat activated

Extreme pressure package

Not specified

Ester blend

Nitrites, phenols, chlorine, sulphur

Not specified

None

Primary applications

Multi-metal machining and grinding

Machining, grinding, and sawing

Carbide grinding / cobalt leach resistance

Yes

Not specified



249-SCR Bio-Stable Multi-Purpose Full Synthetic Coolant

249-SCR is a true oil-free synthetic coolant designed for multi-metal machining and grinding environments. It is used across a wide range of CNC machining and grinding applications and is especially suited for shops that need a clean-running, bio-stable coolant with strong resistance to bacteria and fungus growth.

Figure 2. 249-SCR Bio-Stable Multi-Purpose Full Synthetic Coolant.


Key Benefits

249-SCR provides the following benefits:

  • Excellent tool life

  • Clean-running performance

  • Low foaming

  • Immediate tramp oil rejection

  • No slime generation

  • Long sump life

  • High operator acceptance

  • Low biocide levels to help reduce skin irritation

  • Reduced coolant concentrate consumption as additives remain behind while water evaporates

  • Multi-purpose formula that can reduce the need for multiple coolant products

  • Low residue properties to help keep machines cleaner

  • Residue does not attract chips and swarf

  • Formulated to resist cobalt leaching when grinding carbide-based materials


Bacteria and Fungus Resistance

249-SCR is formulated for strong resistance to bacteria and fungus growth.

Traditional coolant lubricity additives can act as a food source for bacteria. The chemistry of 249-SCR is less nourishing for bacteria and fungus, helping the coolant stay fresh longer, reduce odor, and lower the need for additional biocides.


Refractometer Readings

Use the following refractometer ranges as a guide when checking 249-SCR concentration on a 0–32 Brix scale.

Application

Brix Range

General machining / grinding

5.0–7.0

Band saw / air mist

4.0–5.0

Threading stainless steel

8.0–9.0


Note: Refractometer readings should be monitored regularly to keep the coolant within the recommended operating range.




4912-TCL Full Synthetic Metalworking Coolant

4912-TCL is a multi-functional, full synthetic metalworking coolant designed for tool shop environments. It can be used for machining, grinding, and sawing applications in a single oil-free product.

This coolant is designed for clean performance, corrosion protection, low odor, and long sump life.

Figure 3. 4912-TCL Full Synthetic Metalworking Coolant.

Key Benefits

4912-TCL provides the following benefits:

  • Cooler-running process

  • Excellent tool life

  • Clean operation inside and outside the machine

  • Low foaming

  • Excellent corrosion protection

  • Immediate tramp oil rejection

  • Resistance to bacteria, fungus, and mold growth

  • Potential for 1+ year sump life with proper maintenance

  • Odor-free operation for high operator acceptance

  • Maintains concentration longer because additives are not consumed during the process

  • Wet-out formula helps reduce drag-out and carry-off on chips and parts

  • Dried films reconstitute immediately on startup and rejoin the coolant mixture

  • Low residue properties

  • Dried residue does not attract chips and swarf


Refractometer Readings

Use the following target readings and ranges when checking 4912-TCL concentration.

Application

Target Brix %

Range

Machining and grinding

4.0

4.0–6.0

Sawing

5.0

5.0–7.0


Note: If the refractometer reading is below the target, add coolant concentrate. If the reading is above the target, add water.

During use, readings may rise as water evaporates and sump volume drops. Add tap water as needed to restore the coolant to the target range.



Water Source

Tap water of any hardness may be used for charge-up and makeup.

4912-TCL is treated to soften water, helping prevent scale, cloudiness, and clogged coolant delivery lines.


Startup Concentration

To determine the amount of new coolant needed for initial startup, divide the total sump volume by 6.

Example:

A 30-gallon sump requires:

30 gallons ÷ 6 = 5 gallons of 4912-TCL

After adding the coolant concentrate, fill the remaining volume with tap water.


Makeup Concentration

If using an automated mixer, add makeup coolant at 1/4 to 1/2 of the target reading.

This helps maintain the proper coolant range and compensate for evaporation during normal use.


Sump Cleaner and Sanitizing Instructions

These instructions apply to initial startup only.

Before changing over to fresh 4912-TCL coolant, divide the total sump volume by 20 to determine the number of gallons of 0184-SCS Sump Cleaner & Sanitizer to add to the existing coolant.

Add the sump cleaner and sanitizer 3–4 days before changeover.

After the treatment period:

  1. Drain the sump.

  2. Add fresh rinse water with pumps running.

  3. Drain the rinse water.

  4. Recharge the sump with fresh water and new 4912-TCL coolant.

Important: The sump should be properly cleaned and rinsed before adding fresh coolant. This helps support coolant performance, sump life, and machine cleanliness.



Final Coolant Notes

Before using or maintaining coolant, confirm the following:

  • The correct coolant is being used for the application.

  • Refractometer readings are checked regularly.

  • Coolant concentration is kept within the recommended range.

  • Water is added when readings are above target.

  • Coolant concentrate is added when readings are below target.

  • The sump is cleaned properly during changeover.

  • Makeup concentration is adjusted as needed to compensate for evaporation.

  • Operators monitor for odor, foaming, residue, or unusual machine conditions.

Recommendation: Keep a coolant maintenance log for each machine. Record the coolant type, sump volume, refractometer readings, makeup additions, water additions, cleaning dates, and any observations during use.



Need Assistance?

You can submit a support ticket through our portal. See how to submit a ticket here.

Or email us directly at support@levelupcadcam.com.



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