CoolantCare Fluid Management Service
CoolantCare Fluid Management Service from Kernow Oils is a tailored fluid management programme that keeps your coolants performing at their best. We combine on-site sampling, dip-slide microbiology, concentration & pH checks, laboratory analysis and targeted remedial work to reduce downtime, extend coolant life and lower total operational cost — ideal for CNC machining, metalworking and industrial cooling systems across Cornwall and the South West. Put simply, CoolantCare manages your fluids effectively and efficiently.
Fluid Management - Why it matters
Small changes in coolant chemistry or hygiene can cause large operational problems. By using a service for CoolantCare Fluid Management, proactive control saves money and prevents failure.
- Corrosion & wear: incorrect pH or contamination accelerates machine and tool damage.
- Microbial growth: bacteria, fungi and biofilm cause odour, deposits and potential HSE issues.
- Contamination: tramp oil, metal fines and particulates reduce heat transfer and promote breakdown.
- Higher costs: frequent replacement, disposal and unplanned repairs increase operating expenses.
CoolantCare Fluid Management
Business benefits
- Lower coolant replacement and disposal costs
- Improved tool life and product quality thanks to comprehensive management of coolant care
- Reduced unplanned downtime and cleaner machine sumps
- Audit-ready performance records and trend data
CoolantCare & Fluid Management Service Process
CoolantCare – Fluid Management Service is a practical, repeatable programme designed to identify issues early and deliver measurable improvements.
- Sample collection on-site: representative samples from sumps, return lines and tanks + visual inspection.
- Laboratory & dip-slide testing: concentration, pH, conductivity, microbiology and contamination assays.
- Interpretation & report: clear results, action list, and recommended service frequency.
- Remedial action: sump cleaning, dilution correction, biocide dosing, filtration or tramp-oil removal.
- Ongoing monitoring: monthly, quarterly or bespoke schedules with trend reporting.
- Record keeping: audit-ready logs to support compliance and continuous improvement.
CoolantCare Fluid Management Service – Key metrics we monitor
| Metric | Why it matters | Typical action |
|---|---|---|
| pH | Controls corrosion and chemical balance | pH correction, formulation check |
| Concentration/dilution | Ensures cutting performance and corrosion protection | Top-up or re-formulate to manufacturer spec |
| Total microbial load/dip slides | Detects bacteria and fungi growth | Biocide programme and cleaning |
| Tramp / free oil | Reduces heat transfer & promotes breakdown | Skimming, separation, filtration |
| Conductivity/ions | Signals contamination or chemical breakdown | Flush & rebalance or replace |
| Particulates/solids | Causes abrasion & tool wear | Filtration and housekeeping |
*Acceptable ranges vary by coolant type and manufacturer. We use supplier guidance and industry best practices to set targets.
Case Study – MJ Precision Engineering Ltd (Cornwall)
Client challenge: Frequent coolant replacement, odour and premature tool wear.
What we did: Initial audit and sampling showed low pH, high bacterial counts and free-oil contamination. We performed sump cleaning, corrected concentration and pH, implemented a targeted biocide programme and established monthly monitoring.
Results: Over 12 months, the site reduced coolant replacement by 30%, reported a ~15% reduction in tool wear and saw near-elimination of coolant-related downtime.
“CoolantCare gave us real control. We no longer dread coolant failures, and our costs have come down noticeably.” — Engineering Manager,
CoolantCare & Fluid Management Service Common FAQ's
How often should coolant be tested?
Minimum monthly testing is recommended for most systems. High-use or high-risk applications may benefit from biweekly checks or continuous monitoring.
What contamination signs should I look out for?
Foul odours, visible biofilm, cloudy or milky fluid, foam, oil sheen, corrosion, or a drop in machining finish are all warning signs.
Can I top up coolant rather than replace it?
Top-ups are fine if guided by correct testing. Blind top-ups without analysis risk compounding concentration, pH or contamination problems.
Do you provide training?
Yes — operator training on sampling, daily checks and basic coolant hygiene is available as part of CoolantCare.
Ready to optimise your coolant system?
Book a CoolantCare audit or request a quote — we’ll assess your needs and deliver a tailored plan to cut costs and reduce downtime.
Contact us for a coolant audit/quote
Phone: 01736 757002 · Email: info@kernow-oils.co.uk
Related: Fluid Testing · Industrial Oils · Coolant best practices (blog)