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Writer's pictureCrystal Filtration

Proper Metalworking Filtration Saves More Than Just Coolant

Achieve longer tool life, better part quality, and reduce coolant costs by utilizing the proper filtration media in metalworking.

Signs you need to update your filtration are:

  • Dirty metalworking fluids

  • Short filter media cycles

  • Excess filter media usage

  • Dirty fluid to your operation from the filter

  • High scrap rate on parts

  • Excess tool usage

  • Buildup of fines or mud in the filtration system

Metalworking fluids are critical to the machining process. Dirty machine coolant can lose lubricity increasing frictional heat formation in corresponding tools. Heat retention causes metal fatigue decreasing tool life. Decreasing particulate load in the coolant via filtration simultaneously lowers frictional impacts on tools, increasing the life of --- tools, machine coolant, and grinders.

While the expense of new tools, coolant, and grinders is prominent, one should consider the soft costs accompanying the labor and disposal process that occurs when these changeouts take place.

Non-woven filter media stacked
Assortment of Crystal Filtration filtration medias

In our laboratory at Crystal Filtration we have found, through a multitude of ash tests, the dirt load in coolant is primarily inorganic metallic compounds from the grinding, honing, machining, lapping, polishing, and milling processes. The resulting particulate load in the coolant can vary greatly from system to system based on the process, metal type, tool, and more. This contrasting particle make-up creates a need for individualized filtration.


We approach each media filter need with an experience and scientific-based approach. From thoroughly examining the system and performing laboratory tests, to investigating the volume and nature of contaminants to recommend the most optimal media available.

Microscopic close up view of polycarbonate after coolant analysis ppm test
Microscopic close-up of polycarbonate from liquid contamination coolant analysis.

Our laboratory can measure the particulate load and size distribution in all types of coolant. This is the first thing done when evaluating a new system. Thereafter the used coolant is run through one of our customized filtration medias to determine which allows for the optimal life and efficient particulate removal.


This in house lab testing allows us to make recommendations within your budget without the need to shut down or run multiple system trials.


Coolant analysis lab report
Example coolant analysis laboratory report from Crystal Filtration

Continued technical fluid support is an essential part of Crystal Filtration’s business model. We continue to offer our lab services to ensure that as your systems change, your media is continuing to perform as intended – lengthening tool and coolant life.

Please contact us for a complete filtration system evaluation.

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2146 Avon Industrial Dr.

Rochester Hills, MI 48309

248.844.1239

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