Monitor checks minimum aerosol quantity

lubrication An aerosol monitor enables continuous reliable recording of statistical data relating to aerosol flow to ensure optimum minimum quantity lubrication when metal cutting, producing chips.

The aerosol monitor AM 1000 from SKF Vogel enables continuous reliable recording of the relevant statistical data pertaining to aerosol flow to ensure optimum minimum quantity lubrication in chipping when machining metals.

The device not only detects aerosol densities that deviate from the target value, but indicates when the aerosol current threatens to break off.

This serves to prevent damage to chipping machine tools as well as avoiding the scrapping of workpieces.

Minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) technology is increasingly being implemented by manufacturers and operators of machine tools.

System costs are reduced, because cooling lubricant, filter and preparation systems can be done without in many cases.

In addition to this, productivity is increased due to shorter processing times required to manufacture workpieces.

A higher level of cutting output and longer tool service life also count among the positive results.

With MQL, the lubrication or cooling required between the tool and workpiece is achieved using an air stream carrying finely dispersed droplets of oil, which is called aerosol.

It is of utmost importance that the aerosol current is even, retains a defined density and that it doesn't break off before reaching the tool's cutting edge due to familiar risks.

In order to prevent this, the aerosol monitor AM 1000 is placed in front of the tool spindle to be lubricated for continual aerosol monitoring.

The AM 1000 consists of a sensor, which provides precise aerosol density data via an analog interface.

Evaluation of the data is carried out at the customer by comparing it with previously determined reference values.

The sensor makes it possible to measure the aerosol or oil throughput data for every machining task and tool, and thus optimize the process.

The AM 1000 communicates with the machine tool through a data bus.

In addition to the aerosol density it is also possible to transmit additional system information on the air throughput, reservoir pressure and intake air pressure.

This provides users with a comprehensive overview of the state of their MQL systems so they can intervene in the event of irregularities that endanger processing.

The aerosol monitor is especially designed for use with SKF Vogel 'DigitalSuper' MQL systems.

It can also be used for other applications such as aerosol machine lubrication for example.

Existing machine tools can be retrofitted with the monitoring system without much effort, because the aerosol monitor has standard power supply and signal output connections.

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