The control of bacterial contamination
September 1st 2008

In response to the latest HSE guidelines, concerning the control of bacterial contamination in used water soluble metalworking fluids, and to coincide with the launch of the Ecocool Ultralife range of coolants, Fuchs UK has introduced a new Mobile Coolant Testing Kit

The HSE's revised guidelines, including a new document for metalworking fluid users titled 'MWF5: Managing Sumps and Bacterial Contamination,' states that manufacturers should: carry out a suitable and sufficient risk assessment to evaluate the potential risk of occupational asthma and extrinsic allergic alveolitis maintain fluid quality and control bacterial contamination in fluids minimise skin exposure to fluids prevent or control airborne mists where there is exposure to fluid or mist, carry out health surveillance The testing kit is an ideal way for machining companies to monitor bacteria levels in used coolant and act accordingly, helping them to protect their employees, ensure compliance with HSE guidelines and improve the commercial performance of their business.

The FUCHS Mobile Coolant Testing Kit contains: 12 x dip slides – to monitor bacterial levels 1 x field incubation unit – holds 12 dip slides 1 x 0-18% Brix refractometer – to check fluid concentration 2 x 250ml sterilising solution - for disposal of used dip slides 100 x pH strips - to monitor pH levels 100 x PPE gloves - for safe handling Pipettes & syringe Instruction manual Hard back carry case Replacement items for the testing kit can be ordered directly from FUCHS Excessive levels of bacteria not only contravene HSE guidelines and make employers liable for any regulatory implications, but high levels of bacteria can degrade the technical performance properties of water soluble coolants as they create an acid environment, which causes the fluid to separate and lose its lubricant characteristics.

Poor bacterial control can therefore be detrimental to the health of a business' profits; minimising coolant life, increasing tooling costs and increasing the need for machine maintenance and expensive remedial actions, such as biocide treatments and fluid disposal.

By using the test kit, companies can manage their fluids more effectively, control contamination levels and improve their overall productivity.

Ecocool Ultralife is a new range of biologically hard cutting fluids, developed in response to the new HSE guidelines, concerning the control of bacterial contamination. It is a market focused range of cutting fluids designed to offer users 'best in class' technology, optimum machining performance and outstanding surface finish. The products also provide the ultimate in machine cleanliness for an improved working environment.

The fluids help to extend coolant life, reduce the need for tank side additions and cut fluid maintenance and monitoring in machine shops. This consequently lowers fluid consumption, reduces waste generation and minimises disposal costs.

The products' extremely stable emulsion has also been proven in comparative studies to reduce wear and extend tool life by up to 20%. Manufacturers can not fail to notice the cost saving advantages that these products offer.

The Ecocool Ultralife range contains five different variants designed to provide a suitable fluid, regardless of machining application, metal type (from cast iron to titanium) or water quality. The products are even effective when used with coated tooling types, which are becoming increasingly popular.

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