Best Practices for Metalworking Fluid Maintenance: Veeraja Industries Pvt Ltd.

 

Best Practices for Metalworking Fluid Maintenance

1. Manage Concentration

Maintaining the correct concentration of your coolant is crucial. Most water-based coolants operate with a solution containing less than 10% coolant concentrate, with the remainder being water. If the concentration drops too low, it can lead to inadequate lubrication and cooling, rust formation, and bacterial growth. Regularly check and adjust the concentration by adding fresh coolant as needed, especially since evaporation and carry-off can reduce levels quickly

2. Use Proper Filtration

Effective filtration is vital in modern machining environments. Many CNC machines utilize “through tool” coolant applications, which require clean coolant to function properly. Regularly changing filters is necessary, particularly when machining materials like cast iron that produce fine particles that can clog filters. Monitoring pressure gauges can help determine when filters need replacement

3. Remove Tramp Oil Promptly

Tramp oils from hydraulic and lubrication systems can contaminate the coolant, fostering bacterial growth. While modern coolants are designed to separate tramp oils, they must be removed frequently to prevent emulsification and degradation of the coolant's properties. Utilize skimmers or centrifuges to remove tramp oil efficiently.

4. Keep Fungus and Bacteria in Check

Bacteria thrive in dirty sumps filled with chips and sludge. Regular sump cleaning is essential to prevent bacterial growth, which can compromise coolant effectiveness. Maintaining the recommended pH level of the coolant also helps inhibit bacterial proliferation; some coolants may require additives to maintain optimal pH levels.

5. Clean Machine Sumps Regularly

Regular maintenance of machine sumps is critical for preventing bacterial growth and ensuring proper fluid levels. Dirty sumps can lead to clogged pumps and inaccurate coolant level readings, which may result in overheating and increased foam production due to pump cavitation. Schedule regular cleanings to maintain sump hygiene.

6. Monitor Water Quality

The quality of water used in mixing coolants significantly impacts their performance. Hard or contaminated water can destabilize emulsions and lead to premature degradation of the fluid. Use treated water (like reverse osmosis or de-ionized) for mixing whenever possible.

7. Automate Coolant Mixing

Consider automating the coolant mixing process to ensure consistent concentration levels without manual guesswork. Automated systems can deliver precise mixtures that enhance performance while saving time.By adhering to these best practices, you can significantly extend the life of your metalworking fluids, reduce costs associated with frequent changes, and maintain a safer working environment for employees. For any further assistance or tailored fluid maintenance plans, feel free to reach out via email at marketing@veeraja.com or Visit US: at www.veeraja.comImplementing these strategies not only optimizes fluid management but also enhances overall machinery performance, leading to improved productivity on the shop floor.