Centrifuges for swarf processing

At Coniex we supply centrifuges for chip treatment, which are an excellent technology for separating metal chips from the coolant or lubricant used in the machining process. Our chip centrifuges are easy to maintain and operate, and run automatically to ensure continuous high throughput production.

Our swarf centrifuges find their main application in the metalworking industry, where they are used to separate metal swarf from coolants or lubricants used in machining processes.

During a machining process, metal chips are generated as a result of cutting, turning, milling or drilling a metal part. These chips are mixed with coolants or lubricants, which makes their removal difficult and can negatively affect the quality of the final product.

Our chip centrifuges work by applying high-speed centrifugal force to separate the chips from the liquid. The liquid is recirculated for reuse in the machining process, while the chips are collected for later disposal.

This process reduces production costs while minimizing the environmental impact of the production process by recycling and reusing coolants and lubricants.

We offer a wide range of chip centrifuges to meet every customer’s needs. From compact models to automated and customized systems, we can provide the right solution for your business.

In addition to supplying chip centrifuges, we also offer installation, maintenance and repair services to ensure that your equipment runs optimally and without interruption.

Characteristics of chip centrifuges

CONIEX chip centrifuges allow a very high level of recovery of the coolant (oil or coolant) adhered to the chips during the machining process.
  • Possibility of installation directly at the chip extractor outlet of the machine or as an integral part of a chip treatment system.
  • Application with short chips.
  • Automatic operation.
  • Designed for high-demanding continuous operation.
  • Excellent mechanical reliability.
  • Reinforced components to reduce wear.
  • Minimum dimensions (minimum space occupation).
  • Minimal, simple and economical maintenance.

Operation of our chip centrifuges

A chip centrifuge works by applying centrifugal force at high speed to separate the chips from the liquid. The liquid is separated from the chips and recirculated for reuse in the machining process, while the chips are collected for transport and disposal.

These are the main steps involved in a chip treatment process using centrifugation:

  • Swarf and liquid collection: Metal swarf and coolant or lubricating liquid are collected in a tank or reservoir.
  • Centrifuge feed: The liquid and chips are fed into the centrifuge through a duct or pipe.
  • Chip and liquid separation: The chip centrifuge works by applying centrifugal force at high speed. The liquid and the chips are subjected to this force, which causes the chips to move towards the outside of the drum, while the liquid is concentrated in the center.
  • Chip collection and disposal: Shavings are collected in a basket or container located on the outside of the drum. Once the basket is full, it is emptied and the shavings are disposed of properly.
  • Liquid recirculation: The liquid is recirculated through a filtering system to remove any residual chips and then returned to the tank or reservoir.

Advantages of chip centrifuges

The treatment of swarf using a swarf centrifuge offers a number of significant advantages for the metalworking industry:

  • The swarf centrifuge separates swarf from the coolant or lubricant used in the machining process. This allows the liquid to be recycled and reused, which reduces production costs and minimizes environmental impact.
  • The separated chips are reduced to a much smaller volume than the original, which means they take up less storage space and reduce transportation and disposal costs.
  • The removal of chips from the coolant or lubricant used in the machining process can improve the quality of the final product. Chips can contaminate the fluid and adversely affect the properties of the machined material.
  • accumulated shavings in the workshop can represent a risk of accidents, such as slips and falls. The chip centrifuge helps to keep the workshop clean and safe.
  • Greater efficiency is gained in the machining process, as the use of a chip centrifuge reduces the time required to clean the coolant or lubricant used in the machining process, meaning that operators can focus on production rather than cleaning.

Reuse of recovered chips

The waste recovered from the chips can be reused in different ways, depending on the type of material and its properties after the treatment process. The reuse of recovered waste is in line with the concept of circular economy, as it is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills and to minimize the environmental impact of metal fabrication.

  • Recovered metal chips can be recycled and used as raw material in the production of new materials. Recycling metal chips is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly way to reduce raw material consumption and minimize the amount of waste sent to landfills.
  • They can be melted and used in the production of metal parts or in the creation of alloys. Smelting metal chips can help reduce production costs and save energy, as the smelting process requires less energy than producing metal from raw materials.
  • Reuse as filler material in different applications, such as road construction or concrete manufacturing. Metal chips can also be used as filler material in the manufacture of plastic products, such as egg trays.
  • Recovered metal chips can be heat treated to improve their physical and mechanical properties. Heat treatment can increase the hardness, corrosion resistance and fatigue resistance of the chips, making them more useful in different applications.

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