Metalworking fluids recycled more economically

Edited by the Manufacturingtalk editorial team Feb 1, 2007

Installation of a briquetting press allows metalworking fluids to be economically recycled, saving on fluid and waste disposal costs, while scrap metal is accounted for more accurately.

Houghton plc, a world leading supplier of industrial production lubricants and fluid management services, has recently installed a briquetting press at Continental Teves in Ebbw Vale, Wales, UK.

Continental Teves is an international company specialising in the development of innovative technologies for vehicle safety applications and powertrain systems.

Houghton's support on site, including Fluidcare fluid management, Scandmist Air Filters and Tramp Oil management systems, helps Continental Teves to reduce waste and to maximise productivity by concentrating on core activities.

This latest addition to Houghton's service offering, swarf management, includes a process by which the swarf generated during machining operations is dried and compacted to produce virtually fluid-free solid pucks of compressed metal.

Several cost benefits arise from this process, listed as follows.

* Metalworking fluids can be economically recycled, saving on fluid and waste disposal costs.

* Scrap metal is accounted for more accurately.

* Scrap value is higher because deductions for coolant contamination are eliminated.

Wayne Madden, maintenance manager at Continental Teves commented, "This project has been a real success story for the plant, especially from an environmental stand point.

It has also improved the resale value of our loose and solid scrap." Lee Bowditch, regional business manager, Houghton, added, 'The aim of Fluidcare is to bring cost benefits to our customers and we are delighted with the success of this project.

It is an excellent template for other customers facing continually greater environmental and waste cost pressures." * About Houghton - Houghton offers a complete package of products, service, equipment and expertise and is one of the world's leading suppliers of industrial production lubricants and fluid management services.