A major contaminant of machine coolants is tramp oil.
Tramp oil usually originates from leaky hydraulic systems, gear boxes, spindles etc. and from total loss slideway lubrication systems, as used on many modern machine tools. The oil accumulates on the coolant surface effectively sealing it from air which creates an environment for rapid growth of micro-organisms.
The results are:
- Rancidity (Foul smell and rusting problems).
- High risk of skin problems.
- General deterioration in coolant performance.
- Disposal of coolant is an expensive option.