Mist control at a machining center, Part 2: Mist control following installation of air cleaners.

At a machining center used to produce transaxle and transmission parts, aerosol instrumentation was used to quantitatively evaluate size-dependent mist generation of a synthetic metalworking fluid (MWF) consisting primarily of water and triethanolamine (TEA). This information was used to select an air cleaner for controlling the mist. During most machining operations, the MWF was flooded over the part.

Mist control at a machining center, Part 1: Mist characterization.

At a machining center used to produce transmission parts, aerosol instrumentation was used to quantitatively study mist generation and to evaluate the performance of an air cleaner for controlling the mist. This machining center drilled and tapped holes at rotational speeds of 1000 to 3000 rpm. During most machining operations, the metal-working fluid (MWF) was flooded over the part.

Mist generation at a machining center.

Control of occupational exposure to metalworking fluid mist generally involves enclosing the machining center and exhausting to an air cleaner that returns cleaned air to the workplace. To select an appropriate air cleaner, particle size and generation rate of the mists need to be known. Mist particle size and concentration were measured as a function of tool speed, fluid flow rate, and cutting rate at an enclosed machining center.