Machine Coolant Fluid - Chip Separation 

Every 100 lb of chips and turnings contains about two to four gallons of machine coolant.  The EPA estimates that approximately 90% of all the machine coolants on the market can be recycled which means a huge savings for industry as well as environmental benefits.  Take a look at our articles on Machine Coolant Recycling and Disposal to find some ways to cut costs. 

Three primary methods of separation

Gravity drains - recover about 33% and is inexpensive.

Squeeze the liquid out with a hydraulic ram. Drier scrap in a compact pellet

Centrifuge or chip wringing - fast, large volumes, 98% machine coolant recovery, driest chips 

After separation

Once the machine coolant has been recovered from the chips or parts, the job is half finished. The machine coolant still contains fines and dirt.  The recovered fluid should be filtered. 

Gravity settling

The recovered machine coolant sits and solids settle to the bottom. The cleaner machine coolant will be decanted. The wet sludge and muddy machine coolant will be sold to a recycler. 

Media filtration

The liquid passes through media, leaving solid particles behind. 

Magnetic separators

Effective in removing magnetic materials, and leave behind other solids such as dirt, cutting tool or grinding wheel particles, and any non-magnetic materials.  Generally only works to the 35-micron level. 

Hydro cyclones

Usually effective only on water‑based machine coolant, and can become clogged if subjected to large particles. 

Centrifuge

Parts are spun at high speed and the machine coolant is spun out