News You Can Use
No.
10 Machine Tool Sump Odors
The Problem
If your machine
tools are using water-based coolants, soluble
oil, semi-synthetic, synthetic, then you’ve
probably experienced foul odors emanating from
the coolant sump. It’s especially unpleasant
after the machine tool has been inactive for
a time – overnight, “Monday Morning Stink”,
etc. What’s the cause – how to eliminate it?
The bad smell actually
consists of a mixture of gases, primarily hydrogen
sulfide, that are part of the body wastes of
bacteria and other single-celled organisms that
are actively growing in the coolant. The organic
hydrocarbons in the metalworking fluid provide
a rich source of nutrients and the warm, moist
conditions an ideal growing environment for
these “bugs.” A layer of oil floating on the
fluid surface further encourages the anaerobic
growth of these critters.
There’s more bad
here than just the smell. Since the organisms
are using some of the ingredients of the metalworking
fluid as “food”, the lubricity of the coolant
will be reduced and the machining quality and
speed will be affected. The waste products from
the bacteria also lower the pH of the coolant
(increase its acidity) which can result in corrosion
and premature wear of carbide tooling. To make
matters worse, the bacteria, yeast, algae, etc.
in the fluid can cause skin rashes and dermatitis
in individuals that are sensitive or allergic.
The Solution Traditionally, the addition of chlorine-releasing
compounds or bactericides to the coolant has
been used to attempt to control the growth of
these organisms. The problem is that unless
the chemicals are added on a regular basis they
are only marginally effective. Additionally,
since these products are toxic by nature, they
can aggravate the allergic reaction in those
individuals that are susceptible. Other methods
rely on the injection of ozone or treatment
with high intensity UV light to kill the bacteria.
These methods promote oxidation and, thus, alter
the chemistry and shorten the life of the metalworking
fluid.
Workcell Systems has developed an
advanced design fluid management system that
effectively maintains the condition of the coolant
in a machine tool and extends its useful life.
Using a combination of particulate filtration,
tramp oil removal, aeration and treatment with
the exclusive BioZyne™ filter cartridge, odors
are neutralized, the
performance of the metalworking fluid is maintained
over its extended life and the growth of bacteria,
algae and other organisms is effectively suppressed
– all without adding chemicals or other harmful
materials.
Contact Workcell Systems today to
get additional information or a quote on the
advanced design fluid maintenance systems.
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