In modern manufacturing plants, coolant management plays a critical role in ensuring machine accuracy, surface finish and consistent productivity. As the number of CNC machines and machining centers increases, managing coolant individually for each unit can become inefficient and costly. A Centralized Coolant Filtration System addresses this challenge by supplying filtered coolant to multiple machines from a single, integrated setup.
This guide outlines how such systems are planned and implemented in machine shops, helping manufacturers streamline coolant handling, minimize maintenance and enhance machining performance.
Step 1: Evaluate the Shop Layout and Coolant Requirements
Installation begins with a detailed assessment of the plant layout and machine distribution.
Key factors to evaluate include:
- Number and types of machines to be connected.
- Flow of coolant required per machine.
- Space available for the centralized tank and piping network.
- Nature of machining operations such as turning, grinding, honing or milling.
This analysis ensures that the system capacity, flow rate and filtration level match the production needs.
Step 2: Design the Centralized Filtration Circuit
Once the requirements are clear, the next step is to design the filtration circuit that connects multiple machines to the central unit.
A standard Centralized Coolant Filtration System from Lex Technoaid consists of:
- A main collection tank that receives contaminated coolant from all connected machines.
- Pre-filtration units to remove chips and coarse contaminants.
- Filtration modules, such as magnetic separators or compact band filters to achieve the required cleanliness level.
- Clean coolant tanks equipped with supply pumps that deliver coolant back to machines at the right flow and pressure.
This closed-loop design keeps coolant continuously filtered, maintaining consistent quality throughout operations.
Step 3: Install Supply and Return Pipelines
Piping design determines how smoothly coolant flows between machines and the central system. Lex Technoaid systems are engineered to optimize space utilization by replacing multiple stand-alone filtration units with a single network.
Coolant return lines from machines are directed to the central tank and filtered coolant is then supplied back through a common header line. This layout improves plant aesthetics, reduces floor space consumption and simplifies future maintenance.
Step 4: Integrate Pumps, Sensors and Control Components
Each centralized setup is equipped with robust pumping and monitoring systems.
Lex Technoaid incorporates:
- Pumps integrated with VFD are selected based on the required flow rate and pressure.
- Level indicators and pressure gauges for operational monitoring.
- Automatic replenishment features to maintain coolant volume.
- Temperature control options to ensure coolant thermal stability during long production cycles.
These integrated controls ensure stable operation, minimizing manual intervention and potential downtime.
Step 5: Commissioning and Performance Validation
After installation, the system undergoes thorough testing to verify performance parameters such as:
- Flow and pressure stability across all connected machines.
- Filtration efficiency according to specified micron ratings.
- Proper coolant return and circulation without leakage or blockage.
This validation ensures that the entire network operates efficiently before entering full-scale production.
Step 6: Regular Maintenance and Monitoring
Routine maintenance keeps the system running smoothly and extends its operational life.
Essential maintenance tasks include:
- Periodic cleaning of filter media or replacement of filter paper.
- Checking pumps, valves and sensors for wear or malfunction.
- Maintaining coolant concentration and temperature within recommended limits.
Lex Technoaid systems are designed for easy access and low maintenance, helping plant teams perform servicing quickly without halting production.
Step 7: Analyze Long-Term Benefits
Once operational, a centralized system delivers measurable improvements:
- Reduced operating costs due to shared filtration and pumping.
- Lower maintenance and manpower requirements.
- Stable coolant temperature and purity for consistent machining results.
- Cleaner shop floor environment with reduced oil mist and spillage.
These benefits contribute directly to improved machine performance and product quality.
Conclusion
Installing a Centralized Coolant Filtration System is a strategic upgrade for plants aiming to enhance coolant efficiency, machine reliability and overall productivity. With proven experience in designing and integrating such systems, Lex Technoaid offers solutions tailored to the requirements of machine tool and heavy machinery industries, delivering clean coolant at optimal flow, pressure, temperature and clarity to every connected machine.
For customized centralized filtration solutions, visit lextechnoaid.com or contact our technical team at +91 99166 98105 for a consultation.