In precision machining workshops, cutting oil in the collection tank heats up during the work shift, negatively affecting machining operations and tooling, specifically impacting machining precision and tolerances. A Tempco gear-manufacturing customer reported an issue with a tank that would exceed 45°C within just a few hours due to the lack of a dedicated cooling circuit.
The simplest and least intrusive solution for this specific application was a stainless steel TCOIL heat exchanger immersed directly into the cutting oil tank. This solution required no machine modifications, allows for direct heat transfer with the oil, and can be supplied with water from a cooling tower, chiller, or well.
The solution proposed by Tempco therefore offers several advantages for this application:
- Minimal installation: the TCOIL immersion heat exchanger is placed directly into the cutting oil tank, requiring no machine modifications or additional process piping.
- Direct fluid contact: heat exchange occurs directly within the oil, eliminating the need for pumps or secondary circuits on the process side.
- Customized materials: AISI 304/316 stainless steel to withstand oil, emulsions, and harsh environments.
- Flexible supply: the coil can be fed with cooling tower water, chiller water, or well water; knowing the cooling water temperature and availability is crucial for sizing the unit.
Finally, the secret to a successful solution—ensuring maximum cooling effectiveness and efficiency—lies in the initial stage: measuring the actual thermal duty (volume, ΔT, operating hours) and sizing the system accordingly. To this end, before developing a proposal, Tempco’s technical team always conducts a site visit at the customer’s facility.