mist killer

Mist Extraction Technologies

As industries continue to evolve with the advent of new technologies, the health of the environment and the workforce has emerged as a paramount concern. Within the realm of industrial operations, one cannot overlook the significance of mist extraction technologies. These systems are instrumental in purifying the air of various industrial settings by effectively capturing airborne droplets emanating from oils, chemicals, water, or other fluids. This ensures a clean breathing space, preventing these mists from affecting workers’ health or settling on machinery.

Understanding the mechanics behind mist extraction is crucial for appreciating its importance. Central to this process is the mist collector, a device typically positioned near or above the source of emissions. Its primary function is to gather the mist as it’s generated, serving as the first line of defense in maintaining air quality. Efficient mist collectors are not only health advocates but also guardians of machine health, preventing the buildup that can lead to reduced efficiency and increased maintenance demands.

Various types of mist extraction systems exist, each tailored to combat specific mist forms. From centrifugal mist collectors that apply the principles of centrifugal force to separate mist from air, to electrostatic precipitators that capture particles through an electric charge, and even media filtration units that trap particles with physical filters—each type serves a unique function depending on the nature of the industrial mist.

One cannot discuss mist extraction without highlighting its role in air pollution control. These systems are a company’s ally in complying with stringent regulations set forth by bodies like the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). By curtailing pollutant release, businesses can sidestep potential fines, work interruptions, and the associated financial and reputational damages.

The implementation of mist extraction technologies comes with a plethora of benefits. Workers enjoy a healthier environment, shielded from respiratory problems and skin conditions. Machinery operates more efficiently, spared from the grime that could cause wear and tear. Compliance with environmental regulations becomes manageable, fostering a corporate image of responsibility and care. Moreover, certain systems offer energy savings by recycling the captured mist, reflecting an eco-conscious approach to industrial operations.

Selecting an optimal mist extraction system is a decision that hinges on understanding the type of mist involved, the volume generated, and the spatial dimensions of the installation area. With these factors in mind, a system can be tailored to meet the specific needs of an operation.

Looking ahead, the future of mist extraction technologies holds promise for even greater efficiency, reduced environmental impact, and better integration with the advancing trend of smart factories. These innovations will undoubtedly enhance the sustainability and safety of industrial practices.

In essence, mist extraction systems are not just about maintaining compliance or protecting equipment; they are about securing a safer, healthier, and more productive future for industry workers and the environment alike.

Mist Collector

Harmful Effects of Water-based Coolant Mist

Water-based coolants, commonly used in various industrial processes and machining operations, is favored for its ability to cool and lubricate machinery effectively. However, while it offers numerous benefits, water-based coolant can also have harmful effects on both human health and the environment. This article details the properties of water-based coolants, their applications, and the potential adverse impacts they can have.

What are water-based coolants?

Water-based coolants, also known as cutting fluids or metalworking fluids, are liquids used in manufacturing and metalworking processes to reduce friction and heat generated during various processes like machining, grinding, and cutting. They typically consist of a mixture of water and various additives, including lubricants, rust inhibitors, and surfactants. These additives enhance the coolant’s performance and longevity.

Applications of Water-Based Coolants:

Water-based coolants find widespread use in various industrial applications, including:

  1. Metal Cutting and Machining: Water-based coolants are crucial in metalworking operations such as milling, turning, and drilling. They help maintain the tool’s temperature, prolong tool life, and improve surface finish.
  2. Grinding: In precision grinding processes, water-based coolants prevent jobs from overheating, reduce grinding wheel wear, and aid in achieving precise tolerances.
  3. Heat Treatment: Water-based quenching fluids are used in heat treatment processes to control the cooling rate of metal parts, preventing distortion and achieving desired material properties.

Harmful Effects of Water-Based Coolants:

Despite having their advantages, water-based coolants can have several harmful effects on humans as well as the environment and machineries:

1. Health Risks:

  • Respiratory Issues: Inhalation of airborne coolant mist, which contains tiny droplets of the coolant, can lead to respiratory problems such as coughing, shortness of breath, and even lung diseases.
  • Skin Irritation: Direct skin contact with water-based coolants can cause skin irritation, dermatitis, and allergic reactions. Some coolants may contain additives that exacerbate these issues.
  • Occupational Diseases: Prolonged exposure to water-based coolant mist may lead to occupational diseases, including occupational asthma and hypersensitivity pneumonitis, which can be debilitating and affect a worker’s quality of life.

2. Environmental Impact:

  • Contamination: Improper disposal of water-based coolant can result in soil and water contamination, negatively impacting ecosystems and potentially affecting drinking water sources.
  • Bioaccumulation: Some components of water-based coolants may bioaccumulate in aquatic organisms, entering the food chain and posing risks to human and environmental health.

3. Corrosion and Maintenance:

  • Corrosion: Water-based coolants can promote corrosion in metal components, particularly if not adequately managed or if the coolant becomes contaminated.
  • Maintenance Challenges: Keeping coolant systems and equipment properly maintained can be time-consuming and costly, and neglecting maintenance can lead to operational inefficiencies and increased risks.

4. Microbial Growth:

Water-based coolants are susceptible to microbial growth, leading to issues such as unpleasant odors, degradation of coolant properties, and potential health hazards for workers exposed to contaminated coolant.

5. Waste Generation:

Disposing of used coolant can be a challenge, as it may be considered hazardous waste due to its potential to contain harmful additives and contaminants.

Mitigating the Harmful Effects:

To mitigate the harmful effects of water-based coolants, several measures can be taken:

  1. Effective Ventilation: Implementing proper ventilation systems like mist collectors in industrial settings can help reduce the concentration of airborne coolant mist, safeguarding workers’ respiratory health.
  2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Workers should wear appropriate PPE, including gloves, goggles, and respiratory protection, to minimize skin contact and inhalation of mist.
  3. Safe Handling and Disposal: Follow proper procedures for handling, storing, and disposing of water-based coolant to prevent environmental contamination and reduce waste generation.
  4. Regular Maintenance: Routine maintenance of coolant systems and equipment is crucial to prevent issues like corrosion, microbial contamination, and degradation of coolant properties.
  5. Alternative Coolants: Consider using alternative cutting fluids, such as synthetic or semi-synthetic coolants, which may have fewer health and environmental impacts compared to traditional water-based coolants.

In conclusion, while water-based coolants are indispensable in various industrial processes, their use is not without risks. Understanding the potential harmful effects of these coolants is essential for adopting appropriate safety measures and practices to protect the health of workers and minimize environmental impact. Proactive management and responsible handling of water-based coolants can help strike a balance between their benefits and potential drawbacks, creating a safer and more sustainable working environment.

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MistKiller™ – Your one stop solution for mist control from water-based coolant

Ever wondered what harm a water-based coolant does to the people on your shopfloor?

A lot of people believe that using a water-based coolant is less harmful than using oil-based coolants.

On the contrary, even water-based coolants use soluble oils to ensure the longevity of the tool life (corrosion resistance, high friction resistance etc.). One characteristic of the commonly used water-based coolant is that they provide an ideal medium for microbial growth with consequent biological contaminants.

Knowing the risk of releasing contaminants into your immediate environment, would you still consider releasing the water-based coolant mist on the shop floor or the immediate outside environment?

Now that you’re aware of the harm it causes, we hope that’s surely not the case!

Introducing to you Powertech’s MistKiller™ unit – Your one stop solution for mist generated from water-based coolants.

Using the simple technique of centrifugal force, this mist collector unit incorporates a pre filter and post filter to ensure efficient filtration of the water-based coolant mist before releasing it into air. The air released is about 80%-90% clean which means there is a substantial reduction of pollutant in the mist.

The centrifugal force inside the unit, condenses the mist to liquid which can be routed back to your machine for re-use by means of a drain pipe.

Pre-filters in the form of Aluminum Mesh and Post Filters in the form of Foam Mesh provide excellent filtration and also are washable and re-usable.

What you get with our MistKiller™ is – 1 unit, 3 major benefits:

  1. Filtration of mist at the mist generation source.
  2. Coolant retrieval for re-use
  3. No replaceable cost of filters as these can be just washed and re-used

Are you in need of a mist collector to capture and control water-based coolant mist from CNC machining operations? Get in Touch with us today and we will work with you to provide the best possible solution for your specific requirements.