CNC OS oil skimmers for the removal of waste (tramp) oil from machine tools are now available in the UK from Radius Machine Tool Solutions Ltd (
www.rmts.uk).
Oil contamination in metal-working fluids (MWF) can be a costly nuisance in the work-place, because of the impact it may have on production and — more importantly — the risk of prosecution by environmental agencies if it is not disposed of correctly.
This free-standing unit solves the problem; with its robust aluminium structure, it can be up and running within minutes, and it can be shared by more than one machine.
Particular features include an impeller that induces a vortex to remove waste oil much faster than units relying on a weighted pulley, and built-in height adjustment for coolant depths of 85-205mm. The skimmer uses a maintenance-free oil-resistant synthetic-rubber belt running on an anti-corrosion-coated top pulley.
A direct-driven variable-speed motor allows high levels of control and can be used in conjunction with a standard UK plug-in timer, which can be set to optimise running times and results. The oil is extracted via the standard chute or an optional hose.
Using an oil-skimming device offers a simple and reliable method of minimising oil contamination in the MWF and therefore improving the performance of CNC machine tools.
Oily coolant can also cause dermatitis and a toxic mist when the machine guards are opened. It can also cling to machined components, tooling, measuring equipment and protective glass doors, causing problems while operating and setting.