Tramp oil contamination is one of the most common yet overlooked problems in metalworking operations. When hydraulic oil, way lubricant, and machine oils leak into coolant systems, they quickly reduce coolant performance and create a chain reaction of costly issues. Bacteria thrive beneath the floating oil layer, producing unpleasant odors while breaking down coolant chemistry. As contamination increases, machining performance declines, tool life shortens, surface finishes suffer, and coolant that could have been reused must instead be discarded and replaced. For machine shops operating between 10 and 20 CNC machines, the hidden costs of unmanaged tramp oil can easily reach tens of thousands of dollars each year through coolant replacement, hazardous waste disposal, downtime, and increased maintenance.
Coolant Filtration SystemThe PRAB MCR2 and MCR5 Mobile Coolant Recycling Systems provide an efficient, cost-effective solution for controlling tramp oil contamination directly at the machine. Designed specifically for machine shops, fabrication facilities, job shops, and precision metalworking operations, these portable coolant recyclers extend coolant life while reducing operating expenses without requiring the investment of a centralized recycling system.
Unlike permanent installations, both the MCR2 and MCR5 are completely mobile. Mounted on heavy-duty locking casters, each unit can be moved quickly from one CNC machine to another as needed. This flexibility allows maintenance personnel to service multiple coolant sumps with a single portable system, making it an ideal solution for facilities with varying production schedules or multiple machining centers.
Operation is remarkably simple. The recycler connects to a standard compressed air supply, eliminating the need for electricity, special wiring, or complicated plumbing. Once positioned at the machine sump, the system begins removing floating tramp oil while separating suspended metal fines and other contaminants from the coolant. The cleaned coolant is then returned directly to the machine, ready for continued use. With no permanent installation required, shops can begin improving coolant quality immediately after delivery.
The PRAB MCR2 is an excellent choice for individual CNC machines, machining centers, and lighter-duty coolant maintenance applications. Its compact design makes it easy to maneuver in crowded production environments while delivering reliable tramp oil removal and coolant recovery. Small and medium-sized shops benefit from its portability and ease of use, allowing operators to maintain coolant quality without interrupting production.
For larger operations with higher coolant volumes, the PRAB MCR5 offers increased capacity and productivity. Engineered to service multiple CNC machines throughout the week, the MCR5 efficiently handles larger sumps and higher contamination loads. It is particularly well suited for facilities where one mobile recycler is shared across numerous machining centers, maximizing equipment utilization while minimizing coolant waste.
By removing tramp oil before it degrades coolant, both systems help extend coolant life, reduce bacterial growth, minimize unpleasant odors, improve machining consistency, and increase cutting tool life. Shops also benefit from lower coolant purchasing costs, reduced hazardous waste disposal expenses, fewer machine cleanouts, and improved environmental compliance.
Both the PRAB MCR2 and MCR5 arrive fully assembled and ready for immediate operation. Simply connect shop air, roll the unit to the desired machine, and begin reclaiming coolant that would otherwise require replacement. For manufacturers seeking an economical, portable coolant management solution, these mobile recycling systems deliver measurable savings, improved machining performance, and a cleaner, more efficient production environment.