FRIESS 1U Oil Skimmer for a Large Coolant Tank
Application: Machining Large Stainless-Steel Components for Shipbuilding and Pump Technology
The Problem
The coolant tank is integrated into the bed of a large lathe. Because of the machine’s long centre distance, the bed covers an area of approximately 14 × 4 m. Oil entering the coolant through the slideways and workpieces spreads across the surface and forms a large oil film.
When this film covers the coolant surface, bacteria can multiply rapidly. The coolant then has to be replaced more frequently and the tank cleaned thoroughly, substantially increasing operating costs.
The disc skimmer previously installed removed only a small amount of floating oil and covered a very limited area, so it could not solve the problem effectively.
The Solution: FRIESS 1U Oil Skimmer
The 1U oil skimmer is normally used on smaller tanks with a short collection tube. For this application, however, the unit was fitted with a much longer collection tube running along the entire length of the machine bed.
Tube guides direct the collection tube across the wide span, allowing it to remove floating oil from the whole liquid surface.
Although the tank has a very large surface area, the volume of floating oil remains within the capacity of the 1U oil skimmer, making the system effective and reliable.
Results
With the 1U oil skimmer in operation, the complete coolant surface can be kept free of oil. This has significantly extended the previously short coolant replacement intervals.
The customer now operates seven machines equipped with FRIESS oil skimmers. Satisfied with the results, the company is gradually fitting all of its lathes with FRIESS units.
Summary
- Coolant service life has been extended significantly.
- The production process is now more economical and sustainable.
- The oil skimmer paid for itself within a short period.
- Seven additional tanks are scheduled to receive 1U oil skimmers.
