MyCelx Filters Reduces Oil Misting, Odor in Machining Operation

The Background

For years the machine operators working on the mills and stamping machines at a major automobile manufacturing plant had experienced skin irritation caused by the machining coolants. Typically they suffered from eczema around their nails and in the creases of their fingers and the palms of their hands. In some case the irritation was severe enough to cause open sores and scabs.

The Problem

The skin problems were not the result of contact with the coolant itself but rather a result of biological activity taking place in the coolant as it aged. Tramp oils from lubricants used on the machining equipment built up in the coolant and provided nutrients for the biological activity that resulted in the skin problems. Eventually the coolants had to be discarded (at a considerable disposal cost) due to declining machining quality caused by the excessive build up of the tramp oils.

The Solution

MyCelx Filters were installed on all machines to extend the useful life of the semisynthetic coolants and to improve machining quality while reducing costs. MX-1s were installed on the milling machines and the larger MX-3s on the stamping machines. Particulate filters were also added on the stamping machines. The MyCelx Filters were very successful in removing the tramp oils from the coolant.

The Results

Within 5 or 6 weeks of the installation of the MyCelx filters, the operators no longer showed any signs of skin problems. The sores and scabs were gone, as were all signs of eczema and skin itch. The odor in the machine shop and the stamping area was almost completely gone, as was the visible smoke from oil burn off from the tools. A routine was set up where the filters were changed on the mills every 4 weeks and on the stamping machines every 6 weeks.

Over a year later the plant was expanded and a new line of machining equipment was brought in. Apparently no consideration was given to coolant filtration during the installation process. Before many weeks had past, the old skin issues began to appear on the new lines. Representatives of the machine operators appeared before the plant management committee and insisted that MyCelx filters be installed on the new machines. This omission was quickly recognized as an oversight and the filter systems were installed.

The Benefits

This project turned out to be a win-win for all involved. The working environment and health of the operating employees was clearly improved. The quality of machined parts was improved due to the complete absence of contaminating tramp oils through out the life of the coolant. Costs were reduced both by extending the useful life of the coolants and reducing disposal costs.