How to clean and recharge your machine sump

A properly cleaned machine tool will reduce your overall fluid costs. The frequency depends on a number of factors including visual inspection and monitoring results. In the past, fluids were typically only changed when they created an odor in the plant. 
Modern-day water-based metalworking fluids have made remarkable strides in improving their bio-stability. Despite longer sump life, it is essential to clean machines to optimize the performance of your fluid.

How does this affect performance?

Metal chips in the sump create an ideal breeding ground for bacteria. Increased levels of bacteria will breakdown the emulsion which lowers the pH of the fluid and therefore reduces overall fluid performance.
The chips in the sump take up valuable space that should be occupied by the metalworking fluid. Reduced sump levels due to the buildup of chips place additional strain on pumps and the ability of the fluid to provide essential cooling and wetting properties.
Chips can contribute to reduced tool life, surface finish issues and skin irritation. Cleaning out the chips from the tank dramatically improves the performance of metalworking fluids. Removing chips and cleaning dirty surface areas on machine tools will provide extended sump life.
Using a high-quality machine cleaner such as our recommended ArrowClean 25020 shortens the process and removes insoluble soap residues along with removing residue and build up in the coolant lines of the machine tool.
To properly manage your coolant, your cleanout should include running a cleaner throughout the machine to dislodge sludge and remove biological residues. The cleaning process is an essential first step in the practice of coolant management, ensuring your coolant has a fair chance at giving maximum performance with minimal problems.

Equipment and procedures

• Decide how often you need to clean your system. Discuss this with your fluid supplier.
• Provide equipment to remove and replace sump fluids with minimum spillage, e.g. wet vacuum. Ensure the sump is cleaned before adding fresh MWF.
• Avoid the use of high-pressure water hoses for sump cleaning where possible.
• Keep absorbent material close at hand in case of spillages.
• Wear personal protective equipment, suitable gloves, eye protection, overalls.

Clean out procedure with ArrowClean 25020 (Preferred Method)

1. Add 3-5% of ArrowClean 25020 to the existing metalworking fluid.
2. Circulate 24 Hours in the machine tool.
3. Clean all outside surfaces of the machine tool to remove residue.
4. Stop circulation of machine tool, remove all fluid along with chips and swarf from the sump. Clean surrounding area along with pumps, screens and filters.
5. Properly dispose of fluid in accordance with local regulations.
6. Refill with a weak mix 2% to avoid corrosion. Flush system and rinse sump area
7. Empty flushed coolant.
8. Properly dispose of fluid in accordance to local regulations.
9. Recharge your machine tool with ArrowCool product, ensuring the fluid is mixed properly and at the proper concentration.

Clean out procedure with ArrowClean 25020 (Quick Method)

1. When time does not allow for the preferred method a quick cleaning method can be followed by adding 3-5% of ArrowClean 25020 to the existing fluid in the sump.
2. Circulate the fluid in the machine tool for 6 to 24 hours.
3. Ensure all pumps are circulating, allowing the metalworking fluid and cleaner mixture to pass through all lines and pumps.
4. Clean the exterior areas of the machine tool and properly dispose of all fluid and chips in the sump in accordance with local regulations.
5. Recharge the machine with ArrowCool fluid at the desired concentration.

Caution:

• Don’t remove swarf and fines from the sump by hand. Use suitable tools, e.g. brushes and shovels. Wear suitable cut-resistant protective gloves to prevent injury.
• Cleaning a large enclosed sump or underfloor tank may create a confined space risk. Ensure you have assessed the risk and put in place measures such as a permit to work system.

Following a proper preventative maintenance program will result in lower fluid costs, enhanced tool life and improved operator acceptance. If you have any questions, please contact your Chem Arrow distributor or local representative for more information.