A Complete Guide to CNC Machine Filtermists

The CNC Machine market will grow to highs of $132.93 billion by 2030. These machines are an essential part of manufacturing operations around the world.

But without the proper CNC machine maintenance and tools, they can also be a lethal hazard.

In this article, we’ll discuss how CNC machines using Filtermists can increase your machines' longevity. We also cover crucial benefits that Filtermists bring. We'll cover what they are, how they work, and why you need one.

Let's dive in!

What Is an Oil Mist Collector?

Filtermist is a type of oil mist collector, and they are essential CNC machine accessories. Oil mist collectors for CNC machines extract air that is expelled from operations. They minimize the hazards of contaminants in the air released from changing tools or workpieces.

During CNC machining, an oil mist is formed when fuel, hydraulic, lubricating oil, and other oils are pressurized by machinery. The pressure can create temperatures high enough to turn these oils into vapor.

As more oil particles enter the air, the likelihood of explosions increases. The concentrated oil particles can spark or even explode if they hit a high-temperature surface.

Research also shows these particles can be hazardous to health. Long-term inhalation can cause respiratory diseases, brain damage, and even lung cancer.

As a result, health and safety regulators such as OSHA and NIOSH recommend using oil mist collectors.

How Do Oil Mist Collectors Work?

Filtermist oil collectors operate from barrel-like cylinders. Inside, a perforated drum rotates at high speeds. This causes oil mist to be drawn into the collector.

The drum contains 'veins' or metal slabs rotated by the drum. When the mist enters, it impacts these veins at a high velocity. The veins have special pads that help to draw the oil particles together.

Then, the centrifugal force pushes these particles out through the perforated drum holes to the outer casing of the collector. From here, the oil is drained for reuse or collection. The cleaned air leaves the collector via the top of the unit.

The Benefits of Using a Filtermist Oil Mist Collector

As discussed, oil mist can be dangerous in several ways. In response, Filtermist oil collectors mitigate these risks. Most notably, they can offer the following.

Improved Air Quality

According to one study, particles as small as 1 µm in size can be filtered with 100% efficiency by Filtermist collectors. This ensures harmful oil particles are caught before they damage workers' health.

In addition, the improved air quality creates a safer working environment and conforms to regulatory recommendations. This means reduced sickness and leave.

It also reduces contaminants in the air that can cause pollution. Research also shows the pressure generated by oil collectors to be effective in recovering oil.

Reduced Fire Risk

In 1988, the Piper Alpha was an oil platform located in the North Sea. On the 6th of July that year, the platform exploded. It cost $1.7 billion, and many lives were lost.

Recent research into the incident indicates unregulated oil mist was one cause. They report that in most instances, quantities of mist are released when incidents occur.

In addition, 70% of flash fires were due to uncaught oil mists. The Filtermist oil collector can catch such particles. In the incidents reported, 20% of the mist was from hydraulic oil and another 20% from lubricating oil.

These are just some of the particles that the Filtermists can capture.

Reduced Maintenance Costs

Another critical benefit of Filtermists is their ability to regulate oil in machinery. Research shows that too much oil lubrication can negatively affect efficiency.

It can also lead to increased oil consumption. Filtering systems remove just the right amount of oil from the air, so operations are safe and efficient.

Another benefit the researchers note is the Filtermist can also reduce the amount of dust and corrosion gasses in the air. These elements can reduce the life of machine bearings.

Filtering decreases bearing burnout and overheating from trapped dust. As a result, this decreases maintenance costs for CNC machines.

SYIL With Filtermist

SYIL CNC machines control and automate milling, turning, and other essential manufacturing tools. As part of these operations, lubrication is a critical part of machine design, maintenance, and operational efficiency.

In addition, CNC machine lubrication is necessary for the machine's longevity. This is where specialist CNC oil mist collectors become indispensable for optimal operations.

Oil Mist Collector for CNC Machines

As part of SYIL's ongoing commitment to precision CNC machining tools, we've partnered with the leading oil mist collector brand – Filtermist.

Filtermist has been a dedicated oil mist removal specialist since 1969.

As an accredited ISO 9001 manufacturer and distributor, they have worked with many world-class CNC manufacturers. As a result, they're driven to bring the latest oil mist removal tech compatible with CNC machines.

The Filtermist S and FX Series are compact and quiet filters that can be housed in CNC workplaces. The FX can filter air at top speeds of 2750 m3/h. And research on Filtermists units shows a 100% efficiency rate for particles up to 1 μm.

This is above the minimum recommended filtration size for hydraulic oil particles defined by ISO, NAS, and SAE standards. This is why Filtermist oil mist collectors are so effective.

But using a Filtermist machine is not just a matter of regulation; it's about improving the lives and safety of workers. It is also a way to protect machinery and operations from costly pitfalls.