Effectiveness of Antimisting Polymers in Metal Removal Fluids: Laboratory and Plant Studies

Machining with metal removal fluids (MRFs) leads to the aerosolization of fluid, commonly referred to as mist, into the workplace. One method of reducing airborne mist levels is to add antimisting polymers to the MRF sump. The polymers increase the elongational viscosity of the fluid, thus reducing...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inTribology & lubrication technology Vol. 60; no. 5; p. 38
Main Authors Dasch, Jean M, D'Arcy, James B, Smolenski, Donald J
Format Magazine Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Park Ridge Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers 01.05.2004
Subjects
Aerosols
Fluids
Machinery
Metalworking industry
Polymers
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Summary:Machining with metal removal fluids (MRFs) leads to the aerosolization of fluid, commonly referred to as mist, into the workplace. One method of reducing airborne mist levels is to add antimisting polymers to the MRF sump. The polymers increase the elongational viscosity of the fluid, thus reducing the formation of small droplets. In this study, three antimisting polymers were evaluated through pilot testing in a laboratory-machining center and through testing at General Motors Plants. The tested polymers included the following: 1) polyisobutylene for straight oil systems, 2) polyethylene oxide for water-based systems, and 3) associative polymers for water-based systems. For each case, the effectiveness of the polymer, issues surrounding its use, and the price of utilization are discussed.
ISSN:1545-858X