MICROBIOLOGY OF METALWORKING FLUIDS - DETERIORATION, DISEASE AND DISPOSAL

The primary result of microbial growth in metalworking fluids (MWF) is product deterioration which can result in lost production and workpie ce and tool corrosion. Increased demands for bioresistant MWF have res ulted in either better control of microbial populations with biocides or designed MWF with claimed biostability. In either case the results may be an increase, real or presumptive, in the occupational hazards a ssociated with the process (disease). These include dermatitis from hi gh pH or biocides, acute respiratory effects from bacterial endotoxin, or concerns over potential carcinogenicity. In the end, environmental impact can be reduced by the degradation (bio-remediation) of spent M WF by the same microbes causing primary deterioration. The interrelati onship of all three areas will be discussed with recent examples.