Title: Effect of emulsifier content on microbial contamination of cutting fluids

Authors: Damera Nageswara Rao, Revuru Rukmini Srikant, Posinasetti Nageswara Rao

Addresses: Department of Mechanical Engineering, Andhra University College of Engineering, Andhra University, Waltair, Visakhapatnam – 530 003, India. ' Department of Industrial Production Engineering, College of Engineering, GITAM, Rushikonda, Visakhapatnam – 530 045, India. ' Department of Industrial Technology, University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, IA 50614-0178, USA

Abstract: The microbiological contamination of the cutting fluids over usage and time has been a limitation in their utility, despite the numerous advantages offered. Growth of aerobic bacteria is prominent in the fluids compared to anaerobic bacteria and fungi. Contamination of fluids reduces their effectiveness and also poses a threat to the workers who are constantly exposed to it. Several skin diseases and allergies are reported due to the usage of the fluids. Though study of stored samples of the fluids is available in the literature, not much work is reported for the study of samples under usage. In the current work, the working conditions of the fluid are simulated and the samples are analysed along with the stored samples. Plate count of aerobic bacteria is carried out and the species are identified to estimate their pathogenic effects.

Keywords: cutting fluids; emulsifiers; emulsifier content; microbial contamination; aerobic bacteria; worker exposure; skin diseases; allergies; simulation; pathogenic effects.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMMM.2007.015477

International Journal of Machining and Machinability of Materials, 2007 Vol.2 No.3/4, pp.469 - 477

Published online: 19 Oct 2007 *

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