Tech Talk
What information is needed when evaluating the specs for a filter system?
The most important items needed follow:
A) Flow rate - this means the amount of coolant pumped on the workpiece during the normal work cycle. This should be given in gallons per minute or liters per minute.
B) Type of coolant - this is usually either water base or straight cutting oil. If oil is used, we must know the viscosity. This generally is given as SUS @ 100 degrees F.
C) Type of material being machined.
D) The discharge height of the machine. This is the height above the floor the dirty coolant discharges from the machine base into an external coolant tank.
E) Make, model and type of machine or machines utilizing the filtered coolant. If grinding machines are involved, the desired surface finish is needed. If machining centers are involved, do they require through-the-spindle coolant and, if so, how many GPM?
F) Stock removal per unit of time (i.e. cubic inches/minute).
G) Floor space available for the filtration system.