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I am already at the point where I want to add a coolant delivery system to my mini-mill.
Been looking around, and Smithy.com has one for $170 and uses the water-based coolant. Everything I've read says water-based coolant is bad for the metal on the mill, and I can understand that. SOOOO I've been considering an alternative that uses an oil-based coolant like tap magic or something along that line.
Here's what I have thought up...
The hard part to me seems to be the oil pan - the part that surrounds the platform. Will have to custom-fit a tupperware tray but this will be a minor issue.
Hrm now to go find a storage bin!
Been looking around, and Smithy.com has one for $170 and uses the water-based coolant. Everything I've read says water-based coolant is bad for the metal on the mill, and I can understand that. SOOOO I've been considering an alternative that uses an oil-based coolant like tap magic or something along that line.
Here's what I have thought up...
- Remove side mount plate on T-Slot platform... the plate that lets you scrape out all the metal shavings from under the T-Slots.
- Cut an appropriately-sized plastic storage bin to mount along the edges of the platform.
- Fit so that the flow can spill from the now-opened side mount into the container.
- Secure the container to prevent leakage with an oil-resistant sealant (such as automotive gasket caulk?)
- Put a wire mesh filer and magnet in the path between the tray and coolant resevior (along return path).
- Run a return hose from the tray to the coolant tank.
- Use a self-contained sealed home waterfall/pond pump (I already have one) and hose to pipe from resevior to the cutter.
- Use a cheap oil-based coolant/lubricant such as tap cutting fluid or some other cutting oil.
The hard part to me seems to be the oil pan - the part that surrounds the platform. Will have to custom-fit a tupperware tray but this will be a minor issue.
Hrm now to go find a storage bin!