Microcycle safely disposes toxic metal-work fluids

BAE Systems has successfully trialled Microbial Solutions' Microcycle Technology bio-reactor, which turns toxic metal-working fluids (cooling lubricants) into grey water that is safe to dispose.

Metal-working fluids are sprayed in the machining process to ensure a clean cut, but often contain toxic chemicals and compounds.

Microcycle Technology involves using a bio-reactor, a large cylinder containing a plastic matrix into which the metal-working fluids are poured.

A consortium of bacteria is then introduced into the bio-reactor.

These bacteria affix to the matrix and consume the toxins and chemicals, reducing the pollution load of the fluids by up to 98 per cent.

The grey water produced has a pollution load below the required standards for sewer disposal.

Additional benefits include the conversion of toxic components into harmless gas.

Microcycle Technology is cheaper and more environmentally friendly than current disposal processes such as vacuum evaporation and ultra filtration.

BAE Systems, a defence and aerospace systems manufacturer, commissioned a trial bio-rector from Microbial Solutions for its factory at Brough in East Yorkshire.

The reactor weighs five tonnes, measures 3.5M high x 1.5M in diameter and has been in operation since early 2008.

BAE Systems and Microbial Solutions are discussing the extension of the plant to a total capacity of 25 tonnes, which will be capable of processing about 0.5 million litres of waste metal-working fluid a year.

BAE is also exploring options for taking the technology to its other sites.

Microbial Solutions is a spin-off company from the Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, a research centre owned by the Natural Environment Research Council.

Back to top