Cutting fluid preservation guidelines

Ideally, if it is known that a machine is going to be stood idle for a long period of time, it should be fully cleaned out with ULTRAGUARD® SC System Cleaner and left dry. Any fixtures should be removed, the machine bed and tooling wiped down, then coated with ROCOL MOISTURE GUARD® SPRAY to protect from corrosion. If this is not possible…

…then follow these steps to cutting fluid preservation…

1. Skim all tramp oil from machines (Tramp oil is a food source for bacteria & large amounts of surface oil will limit the oxygen supply to the fluid, this will promote the growth of anaerobic bacteria, which may cause unpleasant odours). You may need to leave the machine stood idle for a few hours to allow any remaining oil to run into the sump.
2. Increase the strength of the sumps. Do this by turning up the fluid mixer & topping up as much as possible. As a rule of thumb, it is recommended to increase the strength to between 40 and 50% above the fresh fill dilution as a minimum. (Please refer to the dilution chart for this information). e.g. 5% fresh fill + 40% = 7% in sump.
3. While topping up the machines add a dose of ULTRAGUARD® BX 2000. This should be added at a ratio of 2000:1 e.g. a 300L sump would require a treatment of 150ml. Be sure to circulate the coolant to help mix in the additive. (This procedure may be repeated each month should the sumps remain idle).
4. Where possible circulate the coolant for an hour each day. Circulating the coolant reduces stagnation and will introduce oxygen and limit the growth of bacteria. (Remember to run all the pumps).
5. Where possible fit airlines in sump to oxygenate the fluid.
6. If any sumps are already requiring a cleanout, please use ULTRAGUARD® SC, follow the standard cleanout procedure & leave the sump dry until required.
7. If a full cleanout is not possible then a full System Cleaner flush potentially at 50:1 Should be carried out, followed by removal of the old fluid.
8. Upon returning to production both preserved and freshly filled sumps should be treated with the relevant additives such as ROCOL ULTRAGUARD® BX 2000 and ULTRAGUARD® FX

ULTRAGUARD® BX 2000

A biocide additive that can be safely used with all types of water mix metalworking fluids to give long lasting protection against bacterial activity.

1. Effectively prevents loss of cutting fluid performance caused by bacterial degradation.
2. Eliminates objectionable odours due to microbial growth.
3. The broad-spectrum activity of ULTRAGUARD BX automatically loosens sludge and slime deposits.
4. Promotes healthier working conditions.
5. Reduces disposal and fluid replacement costs.
6. Economical in use – dilution at 2000:1

ULTRAGUARD® FX

A fungicide additive that can be used with all types of water mix metalworking fluids formulated to eliminate fungus and prevent the formation of fungal growths which can cause blockages and lead to
costly downtime.

1. Eliminates fungal growths.
2. Prevents blockages caused by fungal growths.
3. Promotes healthier working conditions.
4. Reduces disposal and fluid replacement costs.

ULTRAGUARD® SC

A system cleaner for use with water-mix cutting and grinding fluids,
specially designed for use prior to recharging machine tools with
fresh cutting fluid.

It is a biocide-based cleanser and slime remover that cleans and disinfects in one operation, reaching into all areas where the cutting fluid flows through the system, eliminating micro-organisms swiftly and effectively.

1. Effective against aerobic and anaerobic bacteria, yeasts and moulds.
2. Cleans and disinfects in one operation.
3. Can be used whilst machine is in operation – No loss of production time.
4. Extends sump life of fresh cutting fluid.
5. Reaches all areas where the cutting fluid flows.

MOISTURE GUARD® SPRAY

A thin, almost dry corrosion preventative film suitable for the temporary indoor protection of components such as bearings, gears, pressings and any machined metal product which requires protection from corrosive attack – whether in storage, transit or between operations.

1. Effective indoor corrosion protection.
2. Tenacious soft film – easily handled.
3. Almost dry film – does not attract dirt and dust.
4. Particularly effective in damp or humid environments.
5. Available in a clear or green spray
6. The green spray helps identify which components need cleaning or to have the coating removed before use

These simple steps will help you to save money in the long term and keep your cutting fluids in the best condition possible.

Now you know how to look after your cutting fluids, read how ROCOL can help you do the same for your machine tools!