Autofiltrex: Product Spotlight

Cost-effective, 24/7 automated fine particle filtration

More and more precision metalworking workshops are looking to improve operational efficiency and, at the same time, minimise the risk of direct operator exposure to potentially hazardous contaminated metalworking fluids.

As a result, there has been a growth in demand for automated cleaning magnetic filtration systems, that can run 24/7 unmanned, which also reduces the need for operator contact with dirty fluids. While magnetic systems such as Automag Skid have catered for high volume applications, only manual clean magnetic options have been available at cost-effective prices for single-cell machinery. Autofiltrex was developed to satisfy the demand for a compact, competitively priced, automated magnetic filter suitable for small to medium-sized machining applications.

What is Autofiltrex?

Autofiltrex is a high-performance magnetic filter that enables 24/7 unmanned fluid polishing. High-intensity magnetic rods ensure fine particle extraction capability. It features an automated cleaning system, which includes an integral waste reclaim and fluid recovery unit.

How Does Autofiltrex Work?

Autofiltrex is designed to work “in-line” at flow rates up to 200 litres per minute. Dirty fluid flows from a holding tank or sump and into the Autofiltrex filtration chamber, where it is exposed to a strong magnetic field generated by high-intensity Neodymium magnetic rods. The magnets extract fine, ferrous contamination particles, leaving clean polished fluid to flow back to the tool/workpiece contact point on the machine. A timed automated purge cycle lifts the magnetic cores from their housings, thereby releasing the contamination.

At the same time, a 3-way valve diverts the dirty fluid to the reclaim unit. A magnetic roller or reclaim separates the ferrous contamination from the dirty fluid. The resultant clean fluid is returned to the holding tank, and the separated ferrous contamination is collected in the waste reclaim in a recyclable form. Meanwhile, the magnetic rods automatically return to their housings in the filtration chamber. The purge cycle can be preset at timed intervals or undertaken manually.

To watch Autofiltrex in action click here.

Key Product Features

• 24/7 automated filtration and waste separation
• Plug and play—minimal set-up required
• Optimised space—minimal footprint
• Features high intensity Neodymium magnets
• Fine particle filtration performance
• Can interface with CNC controls

 Key Mechanical Features

Key Benefits

• Ideal for 24/7 machining operations
• Provides cleaner fluid delivery to the workpiece contact area
• Increases fluid life, thereby reducing costs
• Reduces expenditure on consumable filters
• Reduced downtime—minimised tool breakages and maintenance
• Cleaner fluids improve product surface finish
• Reduced waste disposal of dirty fluids and disposable filters 

Product Variations

Autofiltrex is available in 3 models. AF1 has a single magnetic core and is suitable for flow rates up to 60 litres per minute. The AF1 is not supplied with a waste reclaim unit. The mid-range AF3 features 3 high-intensity magnetic cores and is suitable for flow rates of up to 150 litres per minute. The largest model is the AF5, supplied with 5 high-intensity magnetic cores. The AF5 is suitable for flow rates up to 200 litres per minute. 

Typical Applications

Autofiltrex is ideal for use with most single-cell metalworking machinery, including:

• VMC, HMC, and CNC machines
• Multi-axis vertical turning centres
• Deep hole/gun drilling
• EDM machines
• Grinding processes
• Honing machines
• Super-finishing machines
• Lapping machines
• Industrial wash stations

Typical Industries

Autofiltrex can be used in most precision steel cutting and finishing industries, including:

• Automotive components
• Bearing manufacture
• Steel forming and rolling
• Steel treatment
• Tool cutting
• Engineering and fabrication workshops

To learn more about Autofiltrex, find it here. To read a case study on Autofiltrex, click here.