Centrifugal separation of coolant emulsions and cooling oils

Coolant emulsions are used in a wide range of cutting and non-cutting processes. Their function is to reduce friction or forming energy, to dissipate heat and to flush filings away from the point being worked.

Coolant emulsions consist of a variety of components (emulsifiers, stabilisers, anti-corrosion additives, extreme pressure additives and mineral oil components). These emulsions are more or less prone to rancidity and decomposition. Contaminants such as metal abrasives and foreign fluids (hydraulic fluids, lubricating oils) accelerate the ageing process, i.e. degradation of the emulsifier, formation of acids, discolouration, odour and skin irritation caused by handling.