Inhaltsverzeichnis
- The misconception about filter performance
- Case study from practice: 10,000 liters of oil stored in the air filtration system – a potential hazard of filter systems on machine tools
- Water-soluble cooling lubricants: A breeding ground for germs – A potential hazard of filter systems on machine tools
- Separators: The superior alternative and considerable reduction in the hazard potential of filter systems on machine tools
- Conclusion: filter out, separator in
- Supplementary information on the topic: Potential hazards of filter systems on machine tools
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Potential hazards of filter systems on machine tools: Why separators are the safer and more economical solution! In modern production environments, especially in mechanical engineering, air purification on machine tools plays a crucial role. However, there is often uncertainty when it comes to choosing the right technology: filter or separator – which system is the right one? In practice, it is becoming increasingly clear that filter systems not only involve hidden costs, but also considerable safety risks.
The misconception about filter performance
Filter systems are often regarded as “the safe bet”. They filter efficiently, they store reliably – but this is precisely where the problem lies. Save filter! And what they store is rarely harmless in mechanical engineering!!!
Two main types of cooling lubricants are used on machine tools:
– Non-water-soluble cutting fluids, i.e. pure, low-viscosity cutting oil
– Water-soluble emulsions, also known colloquially as drilling milk
Both variants pose a serious potential hazard when filtered – if they are collected in filters for weeks or months.
Case study from practice: 10,000 liters of oil stored in the air filtration system – a potential hazard of filter systems on machine tools
An impressive example: One of the world’s largest manufacturers of indexable inserts had over 100 machine tools in one hall – each with its own air cleaner. Each filter stored up to 100 liters of oil. This adds up to 10,000 liters of highly flammable oil that was stored uncontrolled in air cleaners.
The fire risk? Gigantic. While the machines were equipped with carbon dioxide extinguishing systems, the air purifiers had no fire protection at all. The issue was simply overlooked – with potentially catastrophic consequences.
Water-soluble cooling lubricants: A breeding ground for germs – A potential hazard of filter systems on machine tools
Anyone who thinks they are on the safe side with water-soluble emulsions is mistaken. Although there is no acute fire load, there is another danger: uncontrolled bacterial growth.
Filters that absorb emulsions for weeks and store them at room temperature quickly turn into breeding grounds for bacteria and germs. This contaminated air is then released directly back into the workspace in recirculation mode – a massive health risk for staff.
Separators: The superior alternative and considerable reduction in the hazard potential of filter systems on machine tools
In direct comparison, separators offer several decisive advantages:
– No storage – no danger: We separate the cooling lubricants from the exhaust air flow, return them directly to the machine and leave nothing in the air cleaner! No risk of fire, no risk of germs.
– Recycling system instead of waste disposal: We reuse the coolant in a closed-loop system! We do not throw away filters as hazardous waste. We do not have to dispose of filters together with stored coolant!
– Less maintenance, lower costs: we no longer have to replace filters. Separators are virtually maintenance-free. This not only saves time, but also money.
– Healthier room air: By dispensing with recirculation mode with contaminated air, the room air remains permanently cleaner – a plus for occupational health and safety.
Conclusion: filter out, separator in
Anyone who still relies on filter systems for air purification on machine tools today is either acting out of ignorance or at their own risk. The potential dangers of filter systems on machine tools are immense! Modern separators not only offer technological advantages, but also significant safety and economic benefits.
Our recommendation is clear: If technically possible, use separators. Anything that we do not store will not become a hazard later on!
Supplementary information on the topic: Potential hazards of filter systems on machine tools
In our new YouTube mechanical engineering playlist you will find some new videos on this topic and many more: