In
most machine tool coolant systems and detergent
wash systems, tramp oils are the number one contaminant.
In coolant systems, tramp oils collect on top of
the coolant sealing off oxygen and promoting the growth of anaerobic
bacteria. The bacteria feed on tramp oils and the components of
the coolant. It also produces offensive hydrogen sulfide gas
(Monday morning smell).
By removing tramp
oils using oil skimmers, bacterial growth can
be reduced or eliminated and sump life can be greatly increased.
In wash systems, tramp oils can leave residues on
parts. By using oil skimmers to remove them, the bath life can be extended.
Most oil mist is more tramp oil than coolant and
poses more of a health risk than coolant mist only. Removing tramp
oils with an oil skimmer can reduce the amount of oil mists.
Some tramp oils, such as hydraulic fluid, can react
with the coolant causing splitting and accelerated bacterial growth,
resulting in premature pumpouts. They can also be an irritant to the
operators.
Tramp oils
can also cause accelerated tool wear, as they do not have the
machining properties of the manufacturers' lubricants.
Oil
Skimmers can also be used to remove petroleum, vegetable, or synthetic
oils and also greases from process tanks, holding tanks, or catch
basins.
Virtually
any liquid floating on top of another liquid can be removed with an oil
skimmer using the correct belt or other material. Non standard applications may
take some experimentation.
