Do you have questions about cooling lubricants and how to handle them?

In the following, we provide you with answers to the most frequently asked questions about handling cooling lubricants.

How do coolants from Oemeta improve tool life?

Numerous Oemeta products include special lubrication performance additives that reduce the friction between tool and workpiece, thereby contributing to a longer tool life.

What does a drop in pH mean and what can I do about it?

The pH values of cooling lubricants in use are usually above 9.0. Microbiology and/or low input concentration can cause the pH to fall below 9.0, causing secondary properties such as corrosion protection to suffer. In this event, the emulsion can be stabilised by simply increasing the concentration, adding alkalising biocides or alkalising corrosion protection additives.

How is it possible to prevent bacteria growth in a machine?

Water and air are sources of microorganisms. For this reason, the water quality in particular has to be subjected to regular checks so as to avoid contamination from germ-infested pipes or connectors. In addition, it is crucial to avoid contamination of the MWF by such things as cigarette butts, waste, food residues, etc. Keeping the coolant clean and adhering to the recommended application concentration are prerequisites for low microbial growth and a long service life..

Why does an emulsion turn green when copper is processed and what can I do to prevent this?

Copper is released from the workpiece and the chip and reacts with amines in the MWF. This leads to a green discolouration. For the machining of copper alloys, we therefore recommend using coolants without amines or with special amines combined with inhibitors that prevent the copper from being released and causing the discolouration.

What is the correct way to carry out a new filling?

For a new filling, it is important to put in the water first and then add the concentrate. We also recommend using mixing devices that ensure a homogeneous MWF. 

What are the reasons for the discolouration of the emulsion or concentrate?

Cooling lubricants can become discoloured by a wide variety of contaminants. Metal ions such as copper (blue-green), cobalt (red-pink), iron (brown) are the main cause of discolouration. However, tramp oil (brown) or abrasion (grey) also discolour emulsions. With concentrates, the ingredients are a key factor. Oil-free concentrates are clear to yellow, while those containing oil are yellow to brown. Some special additives such as EP additives and biocides can darken the concentrates or make them appear reddish. As long as the storage period has not yet been exceeded, these discolourations normally have no influence on the usage properties of the MWF.

Which biocides prevent the growth of bacteria or fungi?

There are different groups of active biocidal substances. The formaldehyde separators are pure bactericides. In the case of fungicides, there are some based on iodine carbamate, sodium pyrithione and some isothiazolinones (BBIT). One widely used combination product that is effective against bacteria and fungi is CIT/MIT.

How can machines or pipelines be freed of residues such as lime soaps, grease and fungi?

If pipes – especially closed circular pipelines – become clogged with lime soap, they can be cleared by means of compressed air. The use of dispersants such as ADDI PROX LC usually only helps as long as the line still allows some coolant to pass through.

What critical ingredients can formulations of cooling lubricants contain with regard to possible skin irritation?

The protective coat of the skin consists of fatty acids, i.e. tensides and alkaline substances attack the protective layer of the skin. For this reason, excessive skin contact should be avoided and skin protection should always be used. Biocides, EP additives and special inhibitors can also irritate the skin. All Oemeta products are tested for their skin compatibility. The relevant expert assessments are available on request. Further information is to be found in the safety data sheets of the MWF.

Why is it important to maintain a minimum concentration?

In order to meet all primary and secondary requirements for the cooling lubricant. For example, it is impossible to increase tool life at a low application concentration, even with a coolant that has a high lubricating capacity. In addition, properties such as corrosion protection and stability against external influences must be kept at a constant level.e.

Green ISO seal from Dekra

What is Oemeta’s current certification?

Oemeta’s quality management and environmental management are successfully certified to the latest standards by DEKRA, namely ISO 9001:2015 valid until 27.07.2026.

Do you have any further questions?

If so, do get in touch with us. Simply send us an e-mail or give us a call.

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