Managing Metalworking Fluid for Increased Productivity

Metalworking fluids are essential parts of most metal fabrication processes. But with so many different fluid types and formulations available, knowing which one is best for your application can be difficult.

Learning the best ways to focus on managing metalworking fluid for increased productivity can help you make the most of your metalworking fluid and get more out of each job.

The Right Fluid for the Job

The first step in managing your metalworking fluids is to choose the right type. There is a variety of different formulations available, each designed for specific applications. For example, some fluids reduce friction and heat, while others protect against corrosion or reduce smoke and odor. Selecting a fluid designed specifically for your application is important, as using the wrong type can lead to poor performance or even equipment failure.

Storage and Maintenance

Once you have selected the right fluid for your work, storing and maintaining it properly is essential. Metalworking fluids should be stored in cool, dry areas away from direct sunlight or other sources of heat or moisture. To ensure maximum performance and cost savings, it’s also important to regularly clean and filter your fluid and monitor its pH levels. Additionally, replace any contaminated fluid immediately so that it doesn’t cause damage to your equipment or affect product quality.

Cost Savings

A key benefit of adequately managing metalworking fluid for increased productivity is cost savings. You can often extend tool life by using a high-quality fluid with the correct formulation. This reduces costs associated with frequent tool replacements and helps maintain a consistent production level over time. Also, properly maintained fluids can help reduce downtime due to machine maintenance or repairs caused by contaminated oil or lubricants, which can also save on costs.

Metalworking fluids play an essential role in many metal fabrication processes; choosing the wrong type or failing to maintain fluid properly can lead to decreased performance and higher costs over time. The tips outlined above can help you better utilize your metalworking fluid and get more out of each job.

EdjeTech specializes in helping businesses optimize their metalworking fluids for maximum performance and cost savings. Contact us today to learn how our industrial filtration equipment can help you get the most out of your metalworking fluid.

February 17, 2023March 13, 2023

A Quick Guide to How Oil Coalescers Work

If you’re in the metalworking industry, you’ve likely heard of oil coalescers. But what exactly are they? Oil coalescers are devices that separate mixtures of oil, water, and other substances into individual components.

The process works by using a filter material that causes the particles in the mixture to come together (or coalesce) into larger droplets. In this guide, we’ll look closely at how oil coalescers work and why they are important for the metalworking industry.

How Oil Coalescers Work

Oil coalescing works by using a filter material with tiny pores that allow only molecules smaller than the pore size to pass through. As the liquid mixture passes through these pores, molecules of different sizes will separate. The larger molecules will clump together and form larger drops while the smaller molecules pass through as individual particles. This separation process allows for a more efficient refining operation industry since it removes most impurities from liquids during refinement.

The Benefits of Using an Oil Coalescer

One of the main benefits of using an oil coalescer is that it can help reduce costs associated with refining operations in the metalworking industry. By separating impurities such as water, solids, and other contaminants, an oil coalescer can help reduce maintenance costs by requiring less frequent cleaning required on equipment used during refining processes. Additionally, since it requires less energy to separate these impurities, less energy is necessary overall for refining operations, which decreases operational costs associated with fuel consumption.

Since an oil coalescer helps remove impurities from liquids during refinement, it also helps improve product quality by removing any potentially harmful substances that could have been present in the original mixture before processing. This quality increases product safety for consumers who may be using products derived from refined crude oil or natural gas products for their vehicles or machinery, such as gasoline or diesel fuel.

Why Oil Coalescing Is Important

Oil coalescing is important in many refinery operations and oil skimmers for CNC machines because it helps separate impurities from liquids during refinement, which can help reduce maintenance costs while improving product quality. Understanding how an oil coalescer works and its benefits can help your business make informed decisions when investing in this technology for refinery operations at your facility!

EdjeTech offers oil coalescers that are reliable, efficient, and cost-effective. Whether you need a single oil coalescer or you have a larger operation with many tube mill coolant recycling systems, we can provide you with the right solution. Contact us today to learn more!

February 10, 2023February 10, 2023

Why Are Fluids Used in Metal Cutting Applications?

Metal cutting is a process that involves using tools to cut metal pieces into desired shapes. In order to do this, specialized machines and tools must put the material through a certain amount of stress and strain.

One of the most important components of metal cutting is fluids. Fluids work well for lubricating, cooling, and cleaning during the cutting process; they play an essential role in helping create smooth cuts on metal pieces. Let’s examine why fluids are so important for metal cutting applications.

Lubricating During Cutting

One of the most common uses for fluids in metal cutting applications is lubrication. Lubricants help reduce friction between the tool and workpiece, which in turn helps prolong tool life and improves the accuracy and quality of the cuts.

Proper lubrication also helps keep chips from becoming stuck between the tool and workpiece, which can lead to unnecessary wear on both surfaces. Depending on the application, you can use different fluids; some common examples include oil-based emulsions, water-soluble coolants, synthetic oils, or vegetable-based or mineral oils.

Cooling During Cutting

Another important use for fluids in metal cutting applications is cooling, especially when dealing with complex shapes or long cuts. As we know from basic physics, heat is generated when two objects come into contact with each other due to friction.

You need to manage this heat properly so as not to cause damage or distortion to the workpiece or the process’s tooling. Fluids from a milling machine coolant system help dissipate this heat away from both surfaces by acting as a coolant; this helps maintain stability during lengthy operations while also preventing oxidation, or rust, on both surfaces.

Cleaning After Cutting

The last use for fluids in metal cutting applications is cleaning after completed machining. By using special solvents or detergents mixed with water as part of a coolant-lubricant solution, you can remove any leftover chips or debris from both surfaces without causing any damage to either one. This solution helps speed up production time by eliminating additional steps.

All fluid types have unique properties that make them suitable for specific tasks related to metal cutting processes. Understanding which fluid works best for each application will help ensure optimal results every time. By utilizing proper lubrication, cooling techniques, and cleaning solutions during your machining operations, you can minimize the wear on your tools and workpieces while maximizing accuracy and production speeds.

Whether you’re just starting with machining metals or have years of experience, understanding why fluids are so important to metal cutting applications will help you get better results every time.

EdjeTech can help you choose the right fluid type for your unique application needs. Contact us today to discuss your options.

November 21, 2022November 29, 2022

The Benefits of Installing CNC Coolant Filtration Systems

Industrial coolant filtration systems for CNC machines play a key role in operational efficiency, sustainability, and product quality. A filtration system keeps debris and other contaminants out of your machine’s fluids so that you can continue to use clean, efficient coolant. Explore these benefits of installing CNC coolant filtration systems and see how the right system can help your metalworking business now and in the long run.

More Efficient Coolant Usage

Without a filtration system, coolant quickly becomes contaminated and no longer serves your machine. This means you have to use more fluid to continue operating successfully. Machines that contain a filtration system prevent contaminants so you can keep reusing coolant for longer. Extending the life of your coolant makes your fluids more cost-effective and helps you save both time and money.

Lower Waste Disposal Costs

Disposing of coolant responsibly takes time, money, and energy. With a CNC filtration system, you can save on all three by reducing the amount of coolant you use overall. More efficient coolant usage means longer-lasting fluids and reduced disposal costs. In addition to saving money, reducing waste is a crucial sustainability measure that helps your business reduce its carbon footprint.

Longer Machine Life

Clean coolant preserves the life and performance of your CNC machine. Contaminants create unnecessary wear and tear that lead to less efficiency, more repairs, and a lower overall lifespan. A dependable filtration system keeps fluids clean so that you can keep operating smoothly with minimal downtime and repairs.

Improved Surface Finish

The state of your coolant also affects the quality of your products. Contaminated coolant contains dirt, grit, and other debris that can create unwanted scratches against surfaces. Clean coolant, on the other hand, produces smoother cuts and grinds. As a result, CNC coolant filtration systems create a cleaner, more professional finish for your products.

EdjeTech takes coolant filtration to a new level with C.R.O.S.S. (Coolant Recovery Oil Separation System). Experience the benefits of installing a CNC coolant filtration system when you contact EdjeTech today.

November 10, 2022November 10, 2022

The Importance of Removing Tramp Oils From Spent Coolant Fluid

Coolant plays a crucial role in regulating temperature and providing lubrication for CNC machines. If your coolant becomes contaminated, it can cause major issues for your equipment. Oil skimming is a useful practice that helps you maintain clean and effective coolant. In turn, this preserves the efficiency and performance of your CNC machines. Discover the importance of removing tramp oils from spent coolant fluid with this overview.

The Dangers of Tramp Oil

Tramp oil refers to hydrocarbon-based substances—such as hydraulic oil or lubricating greases—that make their way into a machine’s coolant. These unwanted fluids contaminate the coolant and cause issues throughout the machine.

Tramp oils lower the lifespan of your coolant and decrease coolant efficiency. Moreover, tramp oils can cause serious issues with machinery and parts by clogging lines. Tramp oils also act as a breeding ground for bacteria, which present a significant health and safety hazard for operators and other employees.

Coolant Is Becoming More Expensive

Tramp oils contaminate coolant and force you to replace your fluids sooner than expected. In today’s market, that’s an expensive problem. Rising material costs—as well as rising labor costs for coolant replacement—make it even more critical to extend the service life of your machine’s coolant.

Removing tramp oil means removing the contaminants that make your coolant unusable. As a result, you can recycle your coolant, improving both the lifespan and efficiency of your CNC machine’s fluids.

Tramp Oil Puts Your Work Environment at Risk

Health and safety are major concerns when discussing the importance of removing tramp oils from coolant. When tramp oil contaminates coolant, those oils come in contact with hot parts throughout the machine. In addition to creating a burn hazard, the heated oil gives off a hazardous smoke or mist that puts your workers in danger.

Additionally, the bacteria that can grow in the presence of tramp oil create a health hazard in the form of rashes and other skin disorders. If left unchecked, tramp oil creates a dangerous work environment that puts your employees’ health and safety at risk.

Boost Safety and Efficiency With Oil Skimmers

Tramp oil skimmers work to remove free-floating oils, dispersed oils, and suspended solids from your machine’s reservoirs. By eliminating coolant contaminants, tramp oil skimmers extend the service life of your coolant and keep your machine operating at its best. Improve efficiency and cost-effectiveness in your CNC machine with a dependable tramp oil skimmer from EdjeTech.

November 8, 2022November 15, 2022

3 Ways To Offset Rising Metalworking Material Costs

Metalworking businesses and other manufacturers have experience dealing with fluctuating material costs. However, recent market trends have proven unforgiving when it comes to the rising price of industrial materials. Companies must get creative in order to balance these rising costs without sacrificing product quality, manufacturing compliance, employee safety, or customer satisfaction. Explore these ways to offset rising metalworking material costs and help your business continue to succeed.

Make Informed Material Purchases

Your business’s go-to vendor might not always be your best option when purchasing raw materials, especially when the market gets tough. Take the time to review your options and collect quotes from a variety of suppliers. Pay attention to lead times and expiration dates for all quotes you obtain so that you can stay on top of price changes and make the most cost-effective decision for your business.

Optimize Operations With Automation

If you haven’t already, consider adding automated processes to your operations. Automatic equipment can tackle various tasks with speed, ease, and consistency. In addition to streamlining workflow, automated solutions minimize errors and deliver more reliable results.

With proper implementation, your automatic equipment will work in tandem with your employees to create a more efficient, productive, and successful process. The increase in production helps raise your bottom line while also freeing employees to focus on more skill-based tasks.

Reduce Waste and Disposal Costs With Filtration

Another way to offset rising metalworking material costs is to save money with your waste disposal processes. An in-house industrial filtration system allows you to recycle fluids and reduce spent fluid waste. Coolant filtration systems and other fluid recycling equipment decrease your waste and haul-away costs, saving your business money. Moreover, fluids become more cost-effective when you can filter and recycle them rather than dispose of them.

EdjeTech offers custom-manufactured filtration systems to help optimize your processes and make your operations more cost-effective. Minimize fluid waste and make the most of your materials when you partner with EdjeTech to implement your industrial filtration system equipment.

September 20, 2022September 20, 2022

What to Look for in a Coolant Filtration System

Those in the metalworking and manufacturing industries know that having a high-quality coolant filtration system is a great way to improve overall operations while cutting unnecessary costs. But how do you know when a coolant filtration system is high-quality? How do you know if a filtration system will suit your needs?

Don’t worry; at EdjeTech, we know a thing or two about coolant filtration systems, and we’re here to help. Read on to learn some useful questions to ask when choosing a CNC machine coolant filtration system.

1. Does it remove particulate and free oils?

Coolant becomes contaminated with metal fines, way oils, hydraulic oils and rust inhibitors. All these contaminants cause bacteria and/or fungus growth. A system that uses coalescing media removes these particulates and free oils more efficiently, like EdjeTech’s T.O.S.S. or C.R.O.S.S., versus those systems that don’t. The EdjeTech T.O.S.S. and C.R.O.S.S. will be able to provide clean coolant to your machine’s sump or the whole shop 24/7.

2. What features does the coolant filtration system have?

Coolant filtration systems can come with a lot of options like automatic proportioners that automatically mix coolant concentrate, maintaining system levels and fluid concentration; ozone that helps with reducing bacteria and its smell; and Coolant Return Units that will provide clean fluid to the shop floor through overhead piping and drops near CNC machine cells. It is important to talk with your coolant filtration system supplier to discuss your needs.

3. How much money will it save me?

When choosing between CNC machine coolant filtration systems, find out how much money each will save you so you can choose the one that will benefit your budget the most. If you’re looking for a cost-effective option, you should consider the C.R.O.S.S. from EdjeTech, which can reduce waste disposal costs by 85% to 90%, and new fluid purchases by 45% to 80%.

If you take these three simple questions into consideration when looking for a coolant filtration system, you should have no trouble finding one that works for you. If you want to learn more about CNC machine coolant filtration systems, contact EdjeTech at (888) 676-0104, sales@edjetech.com, or fill out our contact form.

March 8, 2022March 8, 2022

Features and Benefits of the Tube Mill Coolant Recovery System

Tube mills, automotive manufacturing plants, large machining facilities, and myriad other industrial operations use vast amounts of coolant on a regular basis. As a result, they are frequently faced with the task of dealing with contaminated fluid. Fortunately, EdjeTech provides a simple solution to this common problem with the Tube Mill Coolant Recovery System.

The Tube Mill Coolant Recovery System is a coolant recycling system that is capable of clarifying large volumes of coolant effectively and efficiently. Coolant recycling systems can help save time and money by drastically reducing the need for new coolant and cutting back on arduous coolant disposal processes.

The Tube Mill Coolant Recovery System (TMCRS) comes with a long list of useful features and benefits. First and foremost, the TMCRS removes both tramp oil and suspended solids from coolant, extending the coolant’s service life and making it possible to reuse. Oils that are separated during the coolant recycling process can also be sold or reused.

Consequently, the TMCRS makes operations more cost-effective. Because it extends coolant life, the TMCRS can significantly reduce waste disposal costs as well as new fluid purchasing costs. As an added bonus, reducing fluid waste can make for a more sustainable, environmentally friendly business model. Coolant recycling systems are good for your wallet and good for the earth.

In addition to performing coolant recycling procedures extremely well, the TMCRS is compact, self-contained, and easy to operate. It can even be integrated with existing systems for maximum convenience and efficiency. Investing in the Tube Mill Coolant Recovery System is an

excellent way to improve operations while simultaneously minimizing unnecessary expenditures.

If you would like to learn more about coolant recycling systems, and how they can benefit your facility, call EdjeTech at (888) 676-0104, send an email to sales@edjetech.com, or fill out our contact form. We look forward to working with you.

March 29, 2019

Use an Efficient Tramp Oil Skimmer to Remove Tramp Oils

At EdjeTech, we provide a tramp oil skimmer and water separation system that eliminates mechanically disseminated, free-floating oil and suspended solids from contaminated fluid. This blog explores the features and benefits of the tramp oil separator system and its process.

Easy to Operate

The system we offer provides operator-friendly operation without requirement for highly-trained personnel to maintain the system. The system itself consists of a floating skimmer, oil water separation unit, and electric or air pump.

The individual operating this tramp oil separator system is responsible for placing the floating skimmer and T.O.S.S. clean fluid return line into the fluid reservoir. After pump operation begins, the T.O.S.S. handles the rest of the operation.

Operation of the Floating Skimmer

The reservoir in which our T.O.S.S. floating skimmer is installed is filled up with contaminated fluid. In order to skim the reservoir’s surface of floating free oils, certain adjustments are made to the skimmer. In addition, the skimmer takes in fluid beneath the surface where mechanically dispersed oil and suspended solids are present.

Removal of Suspended Solids

A separator supply pump is used to draw contaminated fluid through the skimmer from which it is also discharged into a bag filter within the separator. Suspended solids are removed as the fluid passes through the bag filter. Fluid continues to flow beneath the tramp oil discharge trough until it is eventually delivered into highly efficient coalescing media.

Highly Efficient Separation

The coalescing media involved consists of 132 square feet of surface area and one cubic foot in size. The large surface area involved accounts for the 99 percent separation efficiency of 20 µ oil droplets. The total area available for the tramp coolants to flow through determines the efficiency of the tramp oil separator.

Clarified fluid flows from the coalescing media into the clean fluid chamber. It is then transferred from the separator through an adjustable overflow weir, and then, usually conveyed back into the reservoir.

The free oils are removed to the top of the tank by means of the media surface. From there, they enter the tramp oil removal trough and are finally eliminated from the system by means of gravity into a holding container supplied by the client – such as a five-gallon pail or 55-gallon drum.

For more information about our tramp oil skimmer system and how we can help you with your project or operational requirements, call us today at 800.242.0525 or fill out our contact form.

December 5, 2018December 5, 2018

How to Use an Efficient Tramp Oil Skimmer to Remove Tramp Oils

At EdjeTech, we offer a water separation and tramp oil skimmer system that removes free-floating, mechanically disseminated oil in addition to suspended solids from tainted fluid. Our tramp oil separator system operates efficiently through the process described below.

Floating Skimmer Operation

Our T.O.S.S. floating skimmer is installed in a reservoir that is filled with contaminated fluid. Adjustments are made to the skimmer in order to skim the reservoir’s surface and drawing is the floating free-oils on the surface. The skimmer also draws in fluid underneath the surface where suspended solids and mechanically dispersed oil are present.

Supply Pump to the Bag Filter

The contaminated fluid is drawn through the skimmer by the means of a separator supply pump by which it is also discharged into a bag filter in the separator. As the fluid is filtered through the bag, suspended solids are removed. It continues to flow under the tramp oil discharge trough until it arrives into very efficient coalescing media.

High Separation Efficiency

The media consists of cubes of one cubic foot in size and 132 square feet of surface area. The 99 percent separation efficiency of 20-micron oil droplets are made possible by the large surface area. The efficiency of the tramp oil separator depends on the amount of area the tramp coolants must flow through. From the coalescing media flows clarified fluid into the clean fluid chamber which is then released from the separator by means of an adjustable overflow weir and then typically transported back into the reservoir.

The media surface removes the free oils to the top of the tank. They then flow into the tramp oil removal trough and are eventually drained out of the system via gravity into a holding container provided by the client (i.e. 55-gallon drum, 5-gallon pail).

Easy to Operate

The tramp oil skimmer and water separator system we provide is designed in an operator friendly manner without the need to have personnel who are highly technical trained operating and maintaining the system. The system consists of an oil water separation unit, floating skimmer, and air or electric pump.

The operator of the system is only required to place the T.O.S.S. clean fluid return line and floating skimmer in the fluid reservoir. After the pump starts operating, the T.O.S.S. takes care of the rest of the operation.