Cross-Flow Filtration of Machining Fluids by Microfiltration Membranes : Influence of Chip Size on Permeation Flux

Recent developments in the precision grinding technology of advanced ceramics have been remarkable. However, ceramic chips floating in grinding fluids cause scratches on the surface being ground, deteriorating the surface finish. Ceramic chips are extremely hard, fine, nonmagnetic substances and their shape is relatively particulate with low specific gravity. Therefore, the removal of these chips by the conventional filtration system becomes very difficult. In this study, the experimental and theoretical analyses of the cross-flow microfiltration of grinding fluids were examined and the effect of the turbulence promoter on the permeation flux was clarified. The effects of the blockage ratio of the turbulence promoter and feed concentration on the permeation flux and solute rejection, respectively, were examined. A filtration model based on the lateral migration theory was proposed. The calculated results agree qualitatively with the experimental results and the adequacy of this model was confirmed.