| A Refractometer can be
used to determine the concentration of a coolant |
(Click here to buy a Refractometer/ coolant checker online) |
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Just a little bit of effort can extend the life of metalworking fluid
coolant sumps, reducing waste and costly coolant disposal. Coolant
management can also reduce worker exposure to health risks. This is
true for soluble oils, Semi-synthetics, and synthetics. All resulting
in a significant cost savings to end users of metalworking coolants.
The Key Factors in Metalworking Coolant longevity are
correct concentration, filtration, and biological activity:
 | Coolants are designed to function properly
at concentrations of 2-15% depending on the severity of the application.
After selection of the correct metalworking fluid for you application the
next most important aspect is to maintain the correct concentration level.
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| Filtration of particulates and metal fines
helps keep the coolant clean, aids in keeping surface finishes high,
maintains tool life and reduces skin contamination to metal fines.
Metal fine contamination is the most common cause of dermatitis and skin
sensitization, more so than chemicals. The fines penetrate into
cuts/abrasions in the skin and cause redness, sores and blistering. |
| Biological control can be a daunting task
in some shops. It is however a simple process to control. pH
is a great indicator of biological activity. As biological growth,
in many cases, reduces the pH of the coolant. This is due to acids
produced as bacterial action occurs. Low pH readings may indicate a
bacterial problem. |
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