Foreign object removal device, coolant system, and machine tool system

Abstract

The present invention provides a foreign matter removal device, a coolant system, and a machine tool system capable of efficiently removing foreign matter mixed in the coolant fluid. [Solution] The foreign matter removal device comprises a flotation separation tank to which a first fluid containing coolant liquid and foreign matter is supplied and which causes the foreign matter to float; a rotating body to which a portion is immersed in the first fluid in the flotation separation tank and to which the floating foreign matter adheres; and an impeller driven by the first fluid to rotate the rotating body.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a foreign matter removing device, a coolant system, and a machine tool system.

Background Art

[0002] A foreign matter removing device for removing foreign matter from a liquid is known.

[0003] As a related technique, Patent Document 1 discloses a rotary scum automatic recovery device. The rotary scum automatic recovery device described in Patent Document 1 includes a rotating cylinder, a scraper, and a recovery pipe. Scum floating on the water surface of a water tank adheres to the surface of the rotating cylinder. The scraper scrapes off the scum adhering to the surface of the cylinder. The scraped-off scum is recovered by the recovery pipe.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a foreign matter removing device, a coolant system, and a machine tool system that can efficiently remove foreign matter mixed in a coolant liquid.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] Embodiments of the present invention relate to the following foreign matter removing device, coolant system, and machine tool system.

[0007] (1) A first fluid containing a coolant liquid and foreign matter is supplied, a floating separation tank for floating the foreign matter, A rotating body to which the floating foreign matter adheres, which is partially submerged in the first fluid in the flotation separation tank, An impeller driven by the first fluid and which rotates the rotating body Equipped with Foreign matter removal device. (2) The first fluid that drives the impeller flows into the flotation separator. The foreign object removal device described in (1) above. (3) A supply pipe for supplying the first fluid, The aforementioned supply pipe is A first pipe connected to the flotation separator, A second pipe that supplies the first fluid to the impeller and has A foreign object removal device as described in (1) or (2) above. (4) The height of the fluid outlet of the second pipe is higher than the height of the liquid level of the first fluid. The foreign object removal device described in (3) above. (5) With the lower end of the impeller immersed in the first fluid, the impeller is driven by the first fluid. A foreign object removal device as described in any one of (1) to (4) above. (6) The axis of rotation of the rotating body is coaxial with the axis of rotation of the impeller. A foreign object removal device as described in any one of (1) to (5) above. (7) The outer surface of the rotating body allows the coolant liquid to pass through. A foreign object removal device as described in any one of (1) to (6) above. (8) The impeller and the rotating body are further provided with a partition wall, The height of the upper end of the partition wall is higher than the liquid level of the first fluid. A foreign object removal device as described in any one of (1) to (3) above. (9) Further comprising a bubble generator that generates bubbles in the first fluid, The bubbles generated by the bubble generator cause the foreign matter to float in the flotation separation tank. A foreign object removal device as described in any one of (1) to (8) above. (10) Further comprising a scraper for scooping up the foreign matter from the rotating body The foreign matter removal device according to any one of (1) to (9) above. (11) Further comprising a foreign matter recovery chamber in which the foreign matter accumulates, The scraper is, An edge portion facing the rotating body, An upper surface on which the foreign matter moves toward the foreign matter recovery chamber And has, The upper surface is an inclined surface that slopes downward toward the foreign matter recovery chamber The foreign matter removal device according to (10) above. (12) A clean tank into which the coolant liquid separated from the foreign matter flows, A partition separating the floating separation tank and the clean tank And further comprising, The partition is provided with a connection port through which the coolant liquid passes The foreign matter removal device according to any one of (1) to (11) above. (13) The floating separation tank is, A defoaming lid is arranged, a first tank into which the first fluid flows, A second tank into which the first fluid that has moved above the defoaming lid flows And including The foreign matter removal device according to any one of (1) to (12) above. (14) A main tank for storing coolant liquid, A supply device for supplying the coolant liquid from the main tank to the machine tool, A foreign matter removal device, A first pump for sending a first fluid containing the coolant liquid and foreign matter from the main tank to the foreign matter removal device, A first return flow path for returning the coolant liquid from the foreign matter removal device to the main tank And comprising, The foreign matter removal device is, A floating separation tank to which the first fluid is supplied and that floats the foreign matter, A rotating body that is partially immersed in the first fluid in the floating separation tank and to which the floating foreign matter adheres, An impeller that is driven by the first fluid to rotate the rotating body Comprising Coolant system. (15) A machine tool, A coolant system that supplies coolant liquid to the machine tool Comprising The machine tool is A work support device that supports a work, A machining head that holds a tool, A moving device that relatively moves the machining head with respect to the work support device, A discharge device that discharges the coolant liquid Comprising The coolant system is A main tank that stores the coolant liquid, A supply device that supplies the coolant liquid from the main tank to the machine tool, Foreign matter removal device, A first pump that sends a first fluid containing the coolant liquid and foreign matter from the main tank to the foreign matter removal device, A first return flow path that returns the coolant liquid from the foreign matter removal device to the main tank Comprising The foreign matter removal device is A floating separation tank to which the first fluid is supplied and in which the foreign matter is floated, A rotating body that is partially immersed in the first fluid in the floating separation tank and to which the floating foreign matter adheres, An impeller that is driven by the first fluid to rotate the rotating body Comprising Machine tool system.

Advantages of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a foreign matter removal device, a coolant system, and a machine tool system that can efficiently remove foreign matter mixed in the coolant liquid. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a foreign object removal device in the first embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the foreign matter removal device in the first embodiment. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view showing a foreign matter removal device in a first modified example of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a schematic plan view illustrating the foreign matter removal device in the first embodiment. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example in which the impeller and the rotating body are connected via gears. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A1-A1 in Figure 4. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is an enlarged view of the area enclosed by rectangle A2 in Figure 6. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing a magnified view of the rotating body. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A3-A3 in Figure 4. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A4-A4 in Figure 4. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A5-A5 in Figure 4. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a modified example of the discharge mechanism. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the foreign matter removal device in the second embodiment. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the foreign matter removal device in the second embodiment. [Figure 15] Figure 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a foreign object removal device in the second embodiment. [Figure 16] Figure 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of the foreign matter removal device in the second embodiment. [Figure 17] Figure 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating how the height of the discharge port can be adjusted. [Figure 18] Figure 18 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the first unit. [Figure 19] Figure 19 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a modified version of the first unit. [Figure 20] Figure 20 is a schematic diagram showing how the coolant system in the third embodiment can supply coolant to a machine tool. [Figure 21] Figure 21 is a schematic diagram showing how the coolant system in the third embodiment can supply coolant to a machine tool. [Figure 22] Figure 22 is a schematic diagram showing how the coolant system in the first modified example of the third embodiment can supply coolant to a machine tool. [Figure 23] Figure 23 schematically shows how the coolant system in the second modified example of the third embodiment can supply coolant to a machine tool. [Figure 24] Figure 24 is a schematic diagram showing the first removal device. [Figure 25] Figure 25 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example of a machine tool. [Figure 26] Figure 26 is a schematic perspective view illustrating another example of a machine tool. [Figure 27] Figure 27 is a schematic perspective view illustrating yet another example of a machine tool. [Figure 28] Figure 28 schematically illustrates how a coolant system can supply coolant to multiple machine tools. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The foreign matter removal device 1, coolant system 10, and machine tool system 100 in the embodiment will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description of the embodiment, parts and components having the same function will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions of parts and components denoted by the same reference numerals will be omitted.

[0011] (First embodiment) The foreign matter removal device 1A in the first embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 12. Figures 1 and 2 are schematic perspective views illustrating the foreign matter removal device 1A in the first embodiment. Figure 3 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the foreign matter removal device 1A in a first modified example of the first embodiment. Figure 4 is a schematic plan view illustrating the foreign matter removal device 1A in the first embodiment. Figure 5 is a schematic perspective view illustrating an example in which the impeller 40 and the rotating body 30 are connected via a gear 42g. Figure 6 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A1-A1 in Figure 4. Figure 7 is an enlarged view of the area enclosed by rectangle A2 in Figure 6. Figure 8 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an enlarged view of the rotating body 30. Figure 9 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A3-A3 in Figure 4. Figure 10 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A4-A4 in Figure 4. Figure 11 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line A5-A5 in Figure 4. Figure 12 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating a modified example of the discharge mechanism.

[0012] As illustrated in Figure 1, the foreign matter removal device 1A comprises a flotation separation tank 2, a rotating body 30, and an impeller 40.

[0013] As illustrated in Figure 2, the flotation separator 2 is supplied with a first fluid E1 containing coolant liquid L and foreign matter F. The first fluid E1 is, for example, a suspension containing coolant liquid L and foreign matter F.

[0014] As illustrated in Figure 2, the flotation separator 2 causes foreign matter F to float. In the example shown in Figure 2, the flotation separator 2 causes a large number of foreign matter F to float. More specifically, the flotation separator 2 can collect a large number of foreign matter F near the liquid surface ES of the first fluid E1 by causing the foreign matter F to float toward the liquid surface ES of the first fluid E1.

[0015] If the specific gravity of the foreign matter F is less than the specific gravity of the coolant liquid L, the foreign matter F will naturally float towards the liquid surface ES in the flotation separator 2. If the specific gravity of the foreign matter F is greater than the specific gravity of the coolant liquid L, the foreign matter F will adhere to a substance with a lower specific gravity than the coolant liquid L (e.g., air bubbles) in the flotation separator 2. In the example shown in Figure 2, the foreign matter F attached to the air bubble BU will float towards the liquid surface ES of the first fluid E1. Even if the difference between the specific gravity of the foreign matter F and the specific gravity of the coolant liquid L is small, the foreign matter F will gradually float towards the liquid surface ES over time.

[0016] As illustrated in Figure 2, the rotating body 30 is partially submerged in the first fluid E1 in the flotation separation tank 2. In addition, floating foreign matter F adheres to the rotating body 30. More specifically, the foreign matter F that floats to the liquid surface ES of the first fluid E1 (including foreign matter F that floats near the liquid surface ES) adheres to the rotating body 30.

[0017] In the example shown in Figure 2, the impeller 40 is driven by a first fluid E1 containing coolant liquid L and foreign matter F. The impeller 40 also rotates the rotating body 30. More specifically, the impeller 40 uses the volume of the first fluid E1 as a power source to rotate the rotating body 30 around the first shaft AX1.

[0018] The foreign matter removal device 1A in the first embodiment includes a rotating body 30. The rotating body 30 collects foreign matter F that floats to the liquid surface ES of the first fluid E1 by adhering to it, and efficiently removes the foreign matter F from the first fluid E1. Furthermore, since the rotating body 30 is positioned so that a portion of it is submerged in the first fluid E1 in the flotation separation tank 2, the size of the foreign matter removal device 1A, including the rotating body 30 and the flotation separation tank 2, is made more compact, and the number of parts constituting the foreign matter removal device 1A is reduced.

[0019] In the foreign matter removal device 1A of the first embodiment, the impeller 40 rotates the rotating body 30 using the water volume of the first fluid E1 as a power source. Therefore, compared to the case where the rotating body 30 is driven by a motor, power consumption, noise, and vibration are reduced. In addition, since there is no need to add a motor to rotate the rotating body 30, the manufacturing cost of the foreign matter removal device 1A is reduced and the size of the foreign matter removal device 1A is made more compact.

[0020] (Optional additional configuration) Next, with reference to Figures 1 to 12, optional additional configurations that can be adopted in the foreign matter removal device 1A in the first embodiment will be described.

[0021] (First fluid E1 that drives impeller 40) In the example shown in Figure 2, the first fluid E1 that drives the impeller 40 flows into the flotation separator tank 2. In this case, any foreign matter contained in the first fluid E1 that drives the impeller 40 also floats towards the liquid level ES in the flotation separator tank 2. Therefore, the rotating body 30 can efficiently remove any foreign matter contained in the first fluid E1 that drives the impeller 40.

[0022] In the example shown in Figure 2, the first fluid E1 that drives the impeller 40 flows directly into the flotation separator 2. In this case, there is no need to prepare a separate container to receive the first fluid E1 that drives the impeller 40, in addition to the flotation separator 2. Therefore, the size of the foreign matter removal device 1A, which includes the rotating body 30 and the flotation separator 2, is made more compact, and the number of parts that make up the foreign matter removal device 1A is reduced.

[0023] (Supply pipe 6) In the example shown in Figure 2, the foreign matter removal device 1A includes a supply pipe 6 that supplies a first fluid E1 containing coolant liquid L and foreign matter F.

[0024] As illustrated in Figure 2, the supply pipe 6 may have a first pipe 61 connected to the flotation separator 2 and a second pipe 64 that supplies the first fluid E1 to the impeller 40. More specifically, the supply pipe 6 may have a main pipe 60, a branch section 601, a first pipe 61 connected to the main pipe 60 via the branch section 601, and a second pipe 64 connected to the main pipe 60 via the branch section 601.

[0025] In the example shown in Figure 2, a portion of the first fluid E1 bypasses the impeller 40 and is supplied to the flotation tank 2. More specifically, the first pipe 61 supplies the first fluid E1 that is not used to drive the impeller 40 to the flotation tank 2. In the example shown in Figure 2, the remaining portion of the first fluid E1 is supplied to the flotation tank 2 via the impeller 40. More specifically, the second pipe 64 supplies the first fluid E1 that is used to drive the impeller 40 to the impeller 40, and the first fluid E1 that has driven the impeller 40 flows into the flotation tank 2.

[0026] In the example shown in Figure 2, the total amount of the first fluid E1 supplied to the flotation separator 2 per unit time can be greater than the amount of the first fluid E1 supplied to the impeller 40 per unit time. Therefore, more of the first fluid E1 can be supplied to the flotation separator 2 per unit time while suppressing excessive rotation of the impeller 40 and the rotating body 30.

[0027] As illustrated in Figure 2, the foreign matter removal device 1A may include a first adjustment member 65 (for example, an adjustment handle 65a) for adjusting the ratio of the amount of the first fluid E1 supplied to the impeller 40 per unit time to the total amount of the first fluid E1 supplied to the flotation separator tank 2 per unit time.

[0028] Alternatively, as illustrated in Figure 3, the supply pipe 6 may be configured to supply substantially all of the first fluid E1 to the impeller 40. In the example shown in Figure 3, the first fluid E1 that drives the impeller 40 flows into the flotation separator 2. A speed reducer may be interposed between the impeller 40 and the rotating body 30 to prevent the rotating body 30 from rotating at excessive speed.

[0029] As illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, the height of the fluid outlet 64m of the second pipe 64 is higher than the height of the liquid level ES of the first fluid E1 in the flotation separator tank 2.

[0030] In the examples shown in Figures 2 and 3, the first fluid E1 that drives the impeller 40 is configured to flow into the flotation separator tank 2. In the examples shown in Figures 2 and 3, the height of the fluid outlet 64m of the second pipe 64 is higher than the height of the liquid level ES of the first fluid E1, so the first fluid E1 that drives the impeller 40 can be easily introduced into the flotation separator tank 2.

[0031] (Lower end of impeller 40) In the examples shown in Figures 2 and 3, the impeller 40 is driven by the first fluid E1 with its lower end submerged in the fluid E1. More specifically, the height of the lower end of the impeller 40 is lower than the liquid level ES of the first fluid E1 in the flotation separator 2. In the examples shown in Figures 2 and 3, it is not necessary to position the entire impeller 40 above the liquid level ES, so the outer diameter of the impeller 40 can be made relatively larger. Also, when the outer diameter of the impeller 40 is large, sufficient driving torque for the impeller 40 and the rotating body 30 can be secured even with a relatively small volume of liquid. This allows the impeller 40 to be driven by the first fluid E1 even when a portion of the impeller 40 is submerged in the first fluid. As illustrated in Figure 4, the outer diameter of the impeller 40 may be larger than the outer diameter of the rotating body 30.

[0032] Alternatively, the entire impeller 40 may be positioned above the liquid level ES. In this case, the width of the impeller 40 may be wider to allow more of the first fluid E1 to be supplied to the impeller 40. The outer diameter of the impeller 40 may be smaller than the outer diameter of the rotating body 30.

[0033] (Rotation axis AT1 of the rotating body 30) In the example shown in Figure 4, the rotation axis AT1 of the rotating body 30 is coaxial with the rotation axis AT2 of the impeller 40. When the rotation axis AT1 of the rotating body 30 and the rotation axis AT2 of the impeller 40 are coaxial, the power transmission mechanism that transmits power from the impeller 40 to the rotating body 30 is simplified. In addition, the size of the foreign matter removal device 1A, which includes the rotating body 30 and the impeller 40, is made more compact, and the number of parts that make up the foreign matter removal device 1A is reduced.

[0034] In the example shown in Figure 4, the impeller 40 and the rotating body 30 are connected by a shaft member 41 (more specifically, a shaft 41s) that extends along the rotation axis AT1 of the rotating body 30.

[0035] As illustrated in Figure 5, the impeller 40 may rotate the rotating body 30 around the rotation axis AT1 via a power transmission mechanism 42 such as a gear 42g or a transmission belt. In the example shown in Figure 5, the rotation axis AT2 of the impeller 40 and the rotation axis AT1 of the rotating body 30 are parallel. Alternatively, the rotation axis AT2 of the impeller 40 and the rotation axis AT1 of the rotating body 30 may be non-parallel to each other.

[0036] In the example shown in Figure 4, the rotation axis AT1 of the rotating body 30 is substantially parallel to the horizontal plane. Also, the rotation axis AT2 of the impeller 40 is substantially parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0037] In the examples shown in Figures 2 and 3, the foreign matter removal device 1A includes a support member 81 that supports a rotating body 30 so as to be rotatable around a first axis AX1 substantially parallel to the horizontal plane. The support member 81 may be the wall of the flotation tank 2 or a member other than the wall of the flotation tank 2. In the examples shown in Figures 2 and 3, foreign matter F floats on the liquid surface ES of the first fluid E1 in the flotation tank 2. In the examples shown in Figures 2 and 3, the rotating body 30 has a cylindrical body 31 to which the foreign matter F that has floated on the liquid surface ES of the first fluid E1 adheres. Since foreign matter F may also flow near the liquid surface of the first fluid E1, in this specification, foreign matter F that has floated on the liquid surface ES of the first fluid E1 also includes foreign matter F that has floated in the vicinity of the liquid surface ES of the first fluid E1. In the example shown in Figure 4, the foreign matter removal device 1A includes a shaft member 41 (more specifically, a shaft 41s) that supports the rotating body 30 (more specifically, a cylindrical body 31). The support member 81 supports the rotating body 30 so that it can rotate around the first axis AX1 via the shaft member 41 (more specifically, the shaft 41s).

[0038] (Rotating body 30) In the examples shown in Figures 6 and 7, foreign matter F floating on the liquid surface ES of the first fluid E1 adheres to the rotating body 30 (more specifically, the cylindrical body 31). The outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 30 (more specifically, the cylindrical body 31) allows the coolant liquid L to pass through. In this case, the amount of coolant liquid L lifted by the rotating body 30 (more specifically, the cylindrical body 31) is small. Therefore, the amount of coolant liquid L recovered along with the foreign matter F can be reduced, and the amount or frequency of coolant liquid L replenishment can be reduced. The rotating body 30 is, for example, a drum filter.

[0039] In the example shown in Figure 6, a portion of the rotating body 30 (more specifically, the cylindrical body 31) is submerged in the first fluid E1 in the flotation separator 2. In this case, even if the height of the liquid level ES of the first fluid E1 fluctuates somewhat, foreign matter F that has floated to the liquid level ES of the first fluid E1 will adhere to the outer surface 310 of the rotating body 30. Therefore, the foreign matter removal device 1A can suitably remove foreign matter F from the first fluid E1 using the rotating body 30, regardless of fluctuations in the amount of liquid E1 supplied to the flotation separator 2 per unit time.

[0040] In the example shown in Figure 7, multiple openings Q (more specifically, multiple slits Q1) are formed on the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 30 (more specifically, the cylindrical body 31) to allow the passage of coolant liquid L and to suppress the passage of foreign matter F (more specifically, aggregates FA of foreign matter F).

[0041] In the example shown in Figure 7, the outer surface 310 of the rotating body 30 (more specifically, the cylindrical body 31) is composed of the outer surfaces 310a of a plurality of transverse bars 31a. The gap between two adjacent transverse bars 31a functions as a slit Q1 that allows the coolant liquid L to pass through. The cross-sectional shape of the transverse bars 31a may be approximately triangular or other shapes.

[0042] Alternatively, the rotating body 30 (more specifically, the cylindrical body 31) may be made up of a grid or mesh. In this case, the openings in the grid or mesh allow the coolant liquid L to pass through.

[0043] The size of the opening Q may be such that, for example, foreign matter F with a particle size of 1 mm or larger (or foreign matter F with a particle size of 100 μm or larger) cannot pass through. In this case, the opening Q can draw the coolant liquid L into the internal region of the cylindrical body 31 by capillary action (see dashed arrow AR1). Thus, the separation of the coolant liquid L from the aggregates FA of foreign matter F is promoted.

[0044] The width W1 of the slit Q1 (see Figure 7) may be, for example, 100 μm or less, 50 μm or less, or 20 μm or less. In this case, the slit Q1 can draw the coolant liquid L into the internal region of the cylindrical body 31 by capillary action (see dashed arrow AR1). Therefore, the separation of the coolant liquid L from the aggregate FA of foreign matter F is promoted.

[0045] One end 30a of the rotating body 30 (see Figure 4) may be an open end that allows the passage of the first fluid E1. Alternatively, one end 30a of the rotating body 30 may be a closed end. The other end 30b of the rotating body 30 (see Figure 4) may be an open end that allows the passage of the first fluid E1. Alternatively, the other end 30b of the rotating body 30 may be a closed end.

[0046] In the example shown in Figure 6, a liquid surface flow toward the rotating body 30 is formed at the liquid surface ES of the first fluid E1 due to the rotation of the rotating body 30 around the first axis AX1 (see dashed arrow AR2). Therefore, foreign matter F that has floated to the liquid surface ES due to the rotation of the rotating body 30 efficiently adheres to the outer surface 310 of the rotating body 30.

[0047] (Scraper 46) In the example shown in Figure 6, the foreign matter removal device 1A includes a scraper 46 for scooping up foreign matter F from the rotating body 30 (more specifically, the cylindrical body 31).

[0048] If the foreign matter removal device 1A is equipped with a scraper 46, foreign matter F adhering to the rotating body 30 (more specifically, the cylindrical body 31) can be efficiently recovered. Alternatively, or additionally, the foreign matter removal device 1A may be equipped with a vacuum suction device for sucking up foreign matter F adhering to the rotating body 30 (more specifically, the cylindrical body 31).

[0049] As illustrated in Figure 6, in this specification, the portion of the rotating body 30 below the first axis AX1 is defined as the first portion 30-1, and the portion of the rotating body 30 above the first axis AX1 is defined as the second portion 30-2.

[0050] In the example shown in Figure 6, the first portion 30-1 of the rotating body 30 is in contact with the liquid surface ES of the first fluid E1 in the flotation separator 2. In other words, the height of the liquid surface LS of the first fluid E1 is higher than the height of the lower end 30w of the rotating body 30, and lower than the height of the rotation axis AT1 (in other words, the first axis AX1) of the rotating body 30. In this case, a longer time can be secured for the coolant liquid L adhering to the outer surface of the rotating body 30 to be drawn into the internal region of the rotating body 30 (more specifically, the cylindrical body 31). Therefore, the amount of coolant liquid L recovered together with foreign matter F can be reduced, and the amount or frequency of coolant liquid L replenishment can be reduced.

[0051] In the example shown in Figure 8, the scraper 46 has an edge portion 46e facing the rotating body 30 (more specifically, the cylindrical body 31). This edge portion 46e scoops up foreign matter F from the rotating body 30 (more specifically, the cylindrical body 31).

[0052] As illustrated in Figure 8, the line segment connecting the point where the rotating body 30 leaves the liquid surface ES of the first fluid E1 and the first axis AX1 is defined as the first line segment LN1, and the line segment connecting the point where the edge portion 46e of the scraper 46 scoops up foreign matter F from the rotating body 30 and the first axis AX1 is defined as the second line segment LN2. In the example shown in Figure 8, the angle α between the first line segment LN1 and the second line segment LN2, viewed in the direction along the first axis AX1, is 90 degrees or more, 120 degrees or more, or 150 degrees or more. When the angle α between the first line segment LN1 and the second line segment LN2 is large, a longer time can be secured for the coolant liquid L adhering to the outer surface of the rotating body 30 to be drawn into the internal region of the rotating body 30 (more specifically, the cylindrical body 31). Therefore, the amount of coolant liquid L recovered together with the foreign matter F can be reduced, and the amount or frequency of coolant liquid L replenishment can be reduced.

[0053] In the example shown in Figure 8, the height of the edge portion 46e of the scraper 46 is higher than the height of the liquid level ES of the first fluid E1 in the flotation tank 2. The entire scraper 46 may be positioned outside the first fluid E1 stored in the flotation tank 2.

[0054] In the example shown in Figure 8, the scraper 46 scoops up foreign matter F from the second part 30-2 of the rotating body 30. In other words, the scraper 46 (more specifically, the edge portion 46e of the scraper 46) scoops up foreign matter F from the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 30 above the first axis AX1. In other embodiments, the scraper 46 may also scoop up foreign matter F from the lower part of the rotating body 30 (in other words, the first part 30-1 of the rotating body 30).

[0055] As illustrated in Figure 6, the scraper 46 may have a flat plate shape. Alternatively, the scraper 46 may have a trough shape. In the example shown in Figure 6, the scraper 46 has an upper surface 460 on which the foreign matter F moves. In the example shown in Figure 6, the upper surface 460 is the surface on which the foreign matter F moves toward the foreign matter collection chamber 48.

[0056] In the example shown in Figure 2, the upper surface 460 of the scraper 46 is an inclined surface. More specifically, the upper surface 460 of the scraper 46 is an inclined surface that slopes downward as it approaches the foreign matter collection chamber 48. In this case, the foreign matter F scooped up by the scraper 46 moves downward along the upper surface 460 of the scraper 46. Therefore, foreign matter F is less likely to accumulate on the upper surface 460 of the scraper 46. In addition, there is no need to provide an additional drive source to transfer the foreign matter F from the upper surface 460 of the scraper 46 to the foreign matter collection chamber 48. In the example shown in Figure 6, the scraper 46 is a fixed scraper that does not move relative to the flotation separation tank 2.

[0057] In the example shown in Figure 6, the upper end of the scraper 46 is positioned near the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 30, or in contact with the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 30. The upper end of the scraper 46 is the edge portion 46e that scoops up the foreign matter F. In the example shown in Figure 6, the lower end portion 46w of the scraper 46 is positioned vertically above the foreign matter collection chamber 48.

[0058] The inclination angle β of the upper surface 460 of the scraper 46 with respect to the horizontal plane is, for example, 15 degrees or more and 75 degrees or less, 15 degrees or more and 60 degrees or less, or 15 degrees or more and 45 degrees or less.

[0059] In the example shown in Figure 6, any foreign matter F adhering to the outer surface 310 of the rotating body 30 that is not scooped up by the scraper 46 is submerged again below the liquid surface of the first fluid E1 due to the rotation of the rotating body 30. In this case, the foreign matter F that is not scooped up by the scraper 46 detaches from the rotating body 30 and reattaches to the rotating body 30. Therefore, the efficiency of foreign matter recovery is improved. In addition, the strong adhesion of foreign matter to openings Q (see Figure 7) of the rotating body 30 is suppressed.

[0060] (Foreign object collection room 48) In the example shown in Figure 6, the foreign matter removal device 1A includes a foreign matter collection chamber 48 that receives foreign matter F from the scraper 46. In the example shown in Figure 6, foreign matter F accumulates in the foreign matter collection chamber 48. The foreign matter F scooped up by the scraper 46 moves along the inclined surface of the scraper 46 and moves from the lower end 46w of the scraper 46 into the inside of the foreign matter collection chamber 48. The foreign matter collection chamber 48 may be composed of a foreign matter collection container.

[0061] In the example shown in Figure 6, the foreign matter removal device 1A has a wall 49 separating the flotation separation tank 2 and the foreign matter recovery chamber 48, and an opening 491 (more specifically, a notch 491c) is formed in the wall 49 through which the scraper 46 passes. The height of the lower end 491w of the opening 491 is higher than the liquid level ES of the first fluid E1. The height of the lower end 491w of the opening 491 may be higher than the height of the first shaft AX1, or it may be lower than the height of the first shaft AX1.

[0062] In the example shown in Figure 7, the liquid component is separated from the foreign matter F (more specifically, the aggregate FA of foreign matter F) adhering to the outer surface 310 of the rotating body 30. Therefore, the volume of recovered material collected in the foreign matter recovery chamber 48 (more specifically, the volume of material to be discarded) is small.

[0063] (Bubble generator 83) In the example shown in Figure 2, the foreign matter removal device 1A includes a bubble generator 83 that generates bubbles in the first fluid E1. The bubbles generated by the bubble generator 83 cause the foreign matter F to float in the flotation separation tank 2. More specifically, the bubbles generated by the bubble generator 83 cause the foreign matter F to float to the liquid level ES of the first fluid E1 in the flotation separation tank 2.

[0064] Multiple foreign matter F adheres to multiple bubbles BU generated by the bubble generator 83, causing the multiple foreign matter F to float to the liquid surface ES of the first fluid E1 along with the multiple bubbles BU. Furthermore, the multiple foreign matter F that have floated to the liquid surface ES aggregate to form an aggregate FA. The aggregate FA that has floated to the liquid surface ES of the first fluid E1 contains multiple foreign matter F and multiple bubbles.

[0065] In the example shown in Figure 2, the bubble generator 83 is installed in the first pipe 61 (more specifically, the first pipe 61 that supplies the first fluid E1 to the flotation tank 2). In this case, when the first fluid E1 is supplied from the first pipe 61 to the flotation tank 2, foreign matter F contained in the first fluid E1 is lifted to the surface by bubbles. Therefore, the settling of foreign matter F is suppressed, and foreign matter F can be efficiently removed. Alternatively, or additionally, the bubble generator 83 may be installed inside the flotation tank 2.

[0066] The bubble generator 83 may be a self-priming microbubble generator 83a that utilizes the flow of the first fluid E1 through the pipe to draw air into the pipe. When a self-priming microbubble generator 83a is used, a compressor to supply air to the pipe is unnecessary. Since self-priming microbubble generators are well known, a detailed explanation of self-priming microbubble generators will be omitted.

[0067] The bubble generator 83 (more specifically, the microbubble generator 83a) may include a shearing section that reduces the size of bubbles by shearing the air. Alternatively, or additionally, the air may be made finer by rapidly swirling the first fluid E1 flowing through the first pipe 61. The bubble generator 83 may also be a micropore type microbubble generator that supplies air into the first fluid E1 through micropores. A micropore type microbubble generator can cause fine foreign matter F floating in the flotation separation tank 2 to float to the liquid surface ES of the first fluid E1. The bubble generator 83 may also be of other types. For example, the bubble generator 83 may be a device that generates bubbles by reducing the pressure or heating a supersaturated gaseous solution.

[0068] To cause foreign matter F to aggregate in bubbles, or to promote the aggregation of foreign matter F in bubbles, a flocculant may be added to the first fluid E1. Alternatively, or additionally, to promote the aggregation of foreign matter F in bubbles, a charge opposite to the charge on the surface of the foreign matter (e.g., a negative charge) may be imparted to the bubbles.

[0069] In the example shown in Figure 9, the first pipe 61 discharges the first fluid E1 into the lower region of the flotation tank 2. The first pipe 61 may also discharge the first fluid E1 into the region near the bottom of the flotation tank 2. In the example shown in Figure 9, an opening OP1 is formed in the lower part of the flotation tank 2, and the first pipe 61 discharges the first fluid E1 into the lower region of the flotation tank 2 through the opening OP1. When the first fluid E1 is discharged into the lower region of the flotation tank 2, the lower region of the flotation tank 2 is suitably agitated. Alternatively or additionally, the foreign matter removal device 1A may include an agitator for agitating the lower region of the flotation tank 2.

[0070] (Impeller 40) In the example shown in Figure 9, the impeller 40 is equipped with blades 40a arranged radially around the rotation axis AT2. The potential energy of the first fluid E1 as it falls from the fluid outlet 64m of the second pipe 64 is transmitted to the blades 40a, causing the impeller 40 to rotate and converting it into kinetic energy. In this embodiment, the power source for rotating the impeller 40 is the first fluid E1 containing coolant liquid L and foreign matter F, but it is not limited to this, and the impeller 40 may also be rotated by coolant liquid L that does not contain foreign matter F.

[0071] In the example shown in Figure 2, the process from the flotation and separation of foreign matter F to its discharge is performed automatically, thus reducing the operator's workload. Furthermore, the maintenance frequency of the system including the foreign matter removal device 1A (for example, the coolant system 10 described later) can be reduced.

[0072] (Partition wall 21) In the example shown in Figure 1, the foreign matter removal device 1A (more specifically, the flotation separation tank 2) includes a partition wall 21 that separates the impeller 40 from the rotating body 30.

[0073] In the example shown in Figure 2, the height of the upper end 21u of the partition wall 21 is higher than the height of the liquid level ES of the first fluid E1. In this case, backflow of the first fluid E1 from the vicinity of the rotating body 30 toward the impeller 40 is prevented or suppressed. In the example shown in Figure 2, in a plan view, a suitable flow of the first fluid E1 from the impeller 40 toward the rotating body 30 is formed (see dashed arrows AR3 and AR4).

[0074] (Part 1, paragraph 22, and Part 2, paragraph 23) In the example shown in Figure 2, the flotation separator 2 comprises (1) a first section 22 through which the first fluid E1 flows in a first direction DR1 away from the impeller 40 in a plan view, (2) a second section 23 through which the first fluid E1 flows in a second direction DR2 different from the first direction DR1 (more specifically, a second direction DR2 opposite to the first direction DR1) in a plan view, and (3) a partition wall 21 separating the first section 22 and the second section 23. In this case, sufficient time is ensured for the foreign matter F to float to the surface and / or for excessive foam to dissipate.

[0075] In the example shown in Figure 2, a first section 22 through which the first fluid E1 flows in a first direction DR1 and a second section 23 through which the first fluid E1 flows in a second direction DR2 are separated by a partition wall 21 that separates the impeller 40 from the rotating body 30. In the example shown in Figure 2, the partition wall 21 has the function of separating the first section 22 from the second section 23 and the function of separating the impeller 40 from the rotating body 30.

[0076] In the example shown in Figure 9, the supply pipe 6 discharges the first fluid E1 into the first section 22 of the flotation tank 2. In the example shown in Figure 9, the first pipe 61 discharges the first fluid E1 into the first section 22 of the flotation tank 2. In the example shown in Figure 9, the second pipe 64 discharges the first fluid E1 into the first section 22 of the flotation tank 2 via the impeller 40.

[0077] In the example shown in Figure 2, the liquid level of the first fluid E1 in the first section 22 is the same as the liquid level ES of the first fluid E1 in the second section 23.

[0078] (Clean tank 7, and partition 85) In the example shown in Figure 2, the foreign matter removal device 1A includes a clean tank 7 into which the coolant liquid L separated from the foreign matter F flows, and a partition 85 that separates the flotation separation tank 2 and the clean tank 7.

[0079] As illustrated in Figure 10, the partition 85 is provided with a connection port 85c through which the coolant liquid L passes. The connection port 85c is located below the liquid level ES of the first fluid E1. In this case, the partition 85 allows the coolant liquid L to move from the flotation separation tank 2 to the clean tank 7 via the connection port 85c. As illustrated in Figure 2, the partition 85 prevents foreign matter F floating on the liquid level ES of the first fluid E1 from moving to the clean tank 7. Therefore, the concentration of foreign matter in the clean tank 7 is lower than the concentration of foreign matter in the flotation separation tank 2.

[0080] In the example shown in Figure 1, the connection port 85c is located near the region RA directly below the rotating body 30. In this case, the flow of coolant liquid L toward the clean tank 7 through the connection port 85c creates a flow of the first fluid E1 toward the rotating body 30 in a plan view. Therefore, foreign matter F floating on the liquid surface ES of the first fluid E1 can be efficiently collected near the rotating body 30.

[0081] In the example shown in Figure 1, the connection port 85c is located at the lower end of the partition 85. In the example shown in Figure 1, the connection port 85c is located at the end of the partition 85 on the second direction DR2 side.

[0082] In the example shown in Figure 2, the liquid level LS of the coolant liquid L in the clean tank 7 is the same as the liquid level ES of the first fluid E1 in the flotation separation tank 2.

[0083] (Exhaust port 87) In the example shown in Figure 11, the foreign matter removal device 1A (more specifically, the clean tank 7) is equipped with an outlet 87 for discharging the coolant liquid L. In the example shown in Figure 11, the height of the outlet 87 is equal to the height of the liquid level LS of the coolant liquid L in the clean tank 7. More specifically, the height of the liquid level LS of the coolant liquid L in the clean tank 7 is determined depending on the position of the outlet 87 in the height direction. In the example shown in Figure 2, the height of the outlet 87 is equal to the height of the liquid level ES of the first fluid E1 in the flotation separation tank 2. More specifically, the height of the liquid level ES of the first fluid E1 in the flotation separation tank 2 is determined depending on the position of the outlet 87 in the height direction.

[0084] Alternatively, or additionally, as illustrated in Figure 12, the foreign matter removal device 1A may include a pump PN for discharging the coolant liquid L from the clean tank 7. In this case, the discharge port 87 may be the suction port of the pump PN. The foreign matter removal device 1A may include a sensor SN for detecting the height of the coolant liquid level LS. The foreign matter removal device 1A may include a control device that controls the pump PN based on the signal from the sensor SN so that the height of the liquid level LS is maintained.

[0085] In the example shown in Figure 2, a third direction DR3 flow is formed in the clean tank 7, along the partition 85, in a plan view. In the example shown in Figure 2, the third direction DR3 is in the opposite direction to the second direction DR2. In the example shown in Figure 2, the third direction DR3 is in the same direction as the first direction DR1.

[0086] In the example shown in Figure 11, the discharge port 87 is located at the end of the clean tank 7 on the third direction DR3 side. In the example shown in Figure 11, the discharge port 87 is located in the upper region of the clean tank 7.

[0087] The outlet 87 is fluidly connected to the discharge pipe 89. More specifically, the coolant liquid L in the clean tank 7 flows out into the discharge pipe 89 through the outlet 87.

[0088] (Second embodiment) The foreign matter removal device 1B in the second embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 19. Figures 13 and 14 are schematic perspective views illustrating the foreign matter removal device 1B in the second embodiment. Note that in Figure 13, cross-hatching has been added to the defoaming cover 261 to make its arrangement easier to understand. Figure 15 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating the foreign matter removal device 1B in the second embodiment. Figure 16 is a schematic cross-sectional view showing an enlarged portion of the foreign matter removal device 1B in the second embodiment. Figure 17 is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating how the height of the discharge port 87 can be adjusted. Figure 18 is a schematic perspective view illustrating the first unit U1. Figure 19 is a schematic perspective view illustrating a modified example of the first unit U1.

[0089] The second embodiment will primarily describe the differences from the first embodiment. On the other hand, the second embodiment will omit repetitive explanations of matters already described in the first embodiment. Therefore, it goes without saying that even if not explicitly explained in the second embodiment, matters already described in the first embodiment can be applied to the second embodiment. Conversely, matters described in the second embodiment can also be adopted in the first embodiment.

[0090] As illustrated in Figures 13 and 14, the foreign matter removal device 1B in the second embodiment comprises: (1) a flotation separation tank 2 to which a first fluid E1 containing coolant liquid L and foreign matter F is supplied and which causes the foreign matter F to float; (2) a rotating body 30 to which a portion is immersed in the first fluid E1 in the flotation separation tank 2 and to which the floated foreign matter F adheres; and (3) an impeller 40 driven by the first fluid E1 to rotate the rotating body 30.

[0091] Therefore, the foreign matter removal device 1B in the second embodiment has the same effect as the foreign matter removal device 1A in the first embodiment.

[0092] (Optional additional configuration) Next, with reference to Figures 1 to 19, optional additional configurations that can be adopted in the foreign matter removal device 1B in the second embodiment will be described.

[0093] (Defoaming lid 261) In the example shown in Figure 13, the flotation separator 2 includes a first tank 26 into which the first fluid E1 flows, and a second tank 27. A defoaming cover 261 is placed in the first tank 26. As illustrated in Figure 14, the first fluid E1, having moved above the defoaming cover 261, flows into the second tank 27 (see dashed arrows AR3 and AR4 in Figure 14).

[0094] Directly below the defoaming cover 261, bubbles BU to which foreign matter F is attached accumulate. The accumulation of bubbles BU leads to the formation of larger bubbles. Foreign matter F attached to the larger bubbles is less likely to sink in the second tank 27.

[0095] The defoaming cover 261 eliminates at least a portion of the excessively large bubbles BU, leaving an appropriate amount of bubbles BU for the flotation of the foreign matter F. In this way, bubbles BU are prevented from overflowing from the flotation separation tank 2. At least a portion of the excessively large bubbles BU may also be eliminated at the time they emerge into the air directly below the defoaming cover 261.

[0096] In the examples shown in Figures 14 to 16, the defoaming cover 261 is positioned below the liquid level ES of the first fluid E1. The defoaming cover 261 may also be a drop cover.

[0097] As illustrated in Figure 13, a gap GP is formed between the defoaming cover 261 and the impeller 40, allowing bubbles BU in the first fluid E1 to move from a position lower than the defoaming cover 261 to directly above the defoaming cover 261. This gap GP allows bubbles BU and foreign matter F attached to bubbles BU to move from a position lower than the defoaming cover 261 to directly above the defoaming cover 261 (see dashed arrow AR6 in Figure 16). Other gaps may be formed between the defoaming cover 261 and the wall surface of the first tank 26. These other gaps may be configured to allow the first fluid E1 to move upward and to suppress the upward movement of bubbles BU.

[0098] In the example shown in Figure 14, a partition wall 21 is placed between the first tank 26 and the second tank 27. In the examples shown in Figures 15 and 16, the lower region of the first tank 26 and the lower region of the second tank 27 are completely separated by the partition wall 21. More specifically, the partition wall 21 prevents the first fluid E1 from moving directly from the lower region of the first tank 26 to the lower region of the second tank 27. In this case, the movement of foreign matter into the second tank 27 before it floats to the liquid surface ES is prevented, thereby promoting the floating of foreign matter in the first tank 26.

[0099] In the example shown in Figure 14, directly above the defoaming cover 261, the first fluid E1 moves in the first direction DR1 along the partition wall 21 (see dashed arrow AR3). In the example shown in Figure 14, directly above the defoaming cover 261, the foreign matter F that has floated to the liquid surface ES of the first fluid E1 moves in the first direction DR1. In the example shown in Figure 14, the first direction DR1 is the direction away from the impeller 40.

[0100] In the example shown in Figure 14, the partition wall 21 has a passage opening 21c that allows the first fluid E1 to flow into the second tank 27 from above the defoaming cover 261.

[0101] In the example shown in Figure 14, the foreign matter F floating on the liquid surface ES of the first fluid E1 flows into the second tank 27 through the passage port 21c. In the second tank 27, the foreign matter F floating on the liquid surface ES of the first fluid E1 moves toward the rotating body 30 in a second direction DR2, which is different from the first direction DR1.

[0102] In the example shown in Figure 15, the supply pipe 6 (more specifically, the first pipe 61) discharges the first fluid E1 into the lower region of the first tank 26. The supply pipe 6 (more specifically, the first pipe 61) may also discharge the first fluid E1 into the region near the bottom of the first tank 26. When the first fluid E1 is discharged into the lower region of the first tank 26, the lower region of the first tank 26 is suitably agitated. More specifically, the first tank 26 functions as an agitated tank. The first tank 26 may be equipped with an agitator for agitating the lower region of the first tank 26. In the example shown in Figure 15, the supply pipe 6 (more specifically, the first pipe 61) discharges the first fluid E1 toward the first tank 26 in a direction along the first axis AX1. Alternatively, the supply pipe 6 (more specifically, the first pipe 61) may discharge the first fluid E1 toward the first tank 26 in a first direction DR1 or a second direction DR2.

[0103] (Unit 1 U1) In the example shown in Figure 18, the foreign matter removal device 1B comprises a first unit U1 which integrates an impeller 40, a rotating body 30, and a shaft member 41 (see Figure 15) that connects the impeller 40 and the rotating body 30.

[0104] When the impeller 40 and the rotating body 30 are integrated, the assembly of the foreign matter removal device 1B is made more efficient. For example, by simply attaching the first unit U1 to the flotation tank 2, the impeller 40 and the rotating body 30 can be placed in the flotation tank 2.

[0105] In the example shown in Figure 18, the foreign matter removal device 1B comprises a first unit U1 in which an impeller 40, a rotating body 30, and a scraper 46 are integrated. When the impeller 40, the rotating body 30, and the scraper 46 are integrated, the assembly work of the foreign matter removal device 1B is made more efficient.

[0106] The foreign matter removal device 1B may include a cover 84 that covers the impeller 40 and the rotating body 30 from above. In the example shown in Figure 18, the first unit U1 includes a cover 84 that covers the impeller 40 and the rotating body 30 from above.

[0107] (Impeller 40) In the example shown in Figure 15, the impeller 40 is rotated around the first shaft AX1 by the first fluid E1. In the example shown in Figure 15, the first fluid E1 that drove the impeller 40 flows into the flotation separator tank 2 (more specifically, the first tank 26).

[0108] Since the impeller 40 and the first shaft AX1 have already been described in the first embodiment, a repetitive explanation of the impeller 40 and the first shaft AX1 will be omitted.

[0109] In the second embodiment, the foreign matter removal device 1B (or the foreign matter removal device 1A in the first embodiment, the coolant system 10A in the third embodiment described later, or the machine tool system 100 in the fourth embodiment described later) may be equipped with a motor 45 instead of an impeller 40. In the example shown in Figure 19, the motor 45 rotates the rotating body 30 around the first axis AX1. In the example shown in Figure 19, the output shaft of the motor 45 is connected to the rotating body 30 via a power transmission mechanism such as an axis member 41 (more specifically, a shaft 41s).

[0110] (Supply pipe 6) In the example shown in Figure 14, the foreign matter removal device 1B includes a supply pipe 6 that supplies a first fluid E1 containing coolant liquid L and foreign matter F. The supply pipe 6 may have a first pipe 61 connected to the flotation separator tank 2 and a second pipe 64 that supplies the first fluid E1 to the impeller 40.

[0111] In the example shown in Figure 15, the supply pipe 6 (for example, the first pipe 61) discharges the first fluid E1 into the first tank 26 of the flotation separator 2. In the example shown in Figure 15, the second pipe 64 discharges the first fluid E1 into the first tank 26 of the flotation separator 2 via the impeller 40.

[0112] Since the supply pipe 6, the first pipe 61, and the second pipe 64 have already been described in the first embodiment, a repetitive explanation of the supply pipe 6, the first pipe 61, and the second pipe 64 will be omitted.

[0113] (Rotating body 30) In the example shown in Figure 14, foreign matter F (including foreign matter F floating near the liquid surface ES) that has risen to the liquid surface ES of the first fluid E1 adheres to the rotating body 30 (more specifically, the cylindrical body 31). In addition, the outer circumferential surface 310 of the rotating body 30 (more specifically, the cylindrical body 31) allows the coolant liquid L to pass through.

[0114] Since the rotating body 30 has already been described in the first embodiment, a repeated explanation of the rotating body 30 will be omitted.

[0115] (Scraper 46) In the example shown in Figure 18, the foreign matter removal device 1B includes a scraper 46 for scooping up foreign matter F from the rotating body 30 (more specifically, the cylindrical body 31).

[0116] Since the scraper 46 has already been described in the first embodiment, a repeated explanation of the scraper 46 will be omitted.

[0117] (Foreign object collection room 48) In the example shown in Figure 14, the foreign matter removal device 1B includes a foreign matter recovery chamber 48 that receives foreign matter F from the scraper 46.

[0118] Since the foreign matter collection chamber 48 has already been described in the first embodiment, a repeated explanation of the foreign matter collection chamber 48 will be omitted.

[0119] (Bubble generator 83) In the example shown in Figure 14, the foreign matter removal device 1B includes a bubble generator 83 that generates bubbles in the first fluid E1. The bubbles generated by the bubble generator 83 cause the foreign matter F to float to the liquid level ES of the first fluid E1 in the flotation separation tank 2 (for example, in the first tank 26 and / or the second tank 27).

[0120] Since the bubble generator 83 has already been described in the first embodiment, a repeated explanation of the bubble generator 83 will be omitted.

[0121] (Clean tank 7, and partition 85) In the example shown in Figure 14, the foreign matter removal device 1B includes a clean tank 7 into which the coolant liquid L separated from the foreign matter F flows, and a partition 85 that separates the flotation separation tank 2 and the clean tank 7.

[0122] Since the clean tank 7 and the partition 85 have already been described in the first embodiment, a repeated explanation of the clean tank 7 and the partition 85 will be omitted.

[0123] (Exhaust port 87) In the example shown in Figure 14, the foreign matter removal device 1B (more specifically, the clean tank 7) is equipped with an outlet 87 for discharging the coolant liquid L.

[0124] In the example shown in Figure 15, the height of the outlet 87 is equal to the height of the coolant liquid L level LS in the clean tank 7. More specifically, the height of the coolant liquid L level LS in the clean tank 7 is determined by the position of the outlet 87 in the height direction. In the example shown in Figure 15, the height of the outlet 87 is equal to the height of the first fluid E1 level ES in the flotation separator tank 2. More specifically, the height of the first fluid E1 level ES in the flotation separator tank 2 is determined by the position of the outlet 87 in the height direction. In the example shown in Figure 15, the height of the outlet 87 is equal to the height of the first fluid E1 level ES in the second tank 27.

[0125] In the example shown in Figure 15, the outlet 87 is located in the upper region of the clean tank 7. In the example shown in Figure 14, the outlet 87 is an overflow opening 871 that controls the liquid level of the clean tank 7. The overflow opening 871 is an opening that is open at the top. More specifically, the overflow opening 871 is an opening parallel to the horizontal plane.

[0126] In the examples shown in Figures 15 and 17, the foreign matter removal device 1B includes a second adjusting member 88 for adjusting the relative height of the discharge port 87 (more specifically, the overflow opening 871) with respect to the clean tank 7. The second adjusting member 88 may include a screw member 88a (e.g., a nut) for adjusting the height of the discharge port 87 (more specifically, the overflow opening 871).

[0127] In the examples shown in Figures 15 and 17, the second adjustment member 88 can continuously adjust the relative height of the outlet 87 (more specifically, the overflow opening 871) relative to the clean tank 7. Alternatively, the second adjustment member 88 may be able to adjust the relative height of the outlet 87 relative to the clean tank 7 in steps. In the examples shown in Figures 15 and 17, the relative height of the outlet 87 (more specifically, the overflow opening 871) relative to the clean tank 7 can be adjusted manually.

[0128] In the examples shown in Figures 15 and 17, the depth to which the rotating body 30 is immersed in the first fluid E1 is adjusted by adjusting the relative height of the outlet 87 (more specifically, the overflow opening 871) with respect to the clean tank 7.

[0129] (Third embodiment) The coolant system 10A in the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 24. Figures 20 and 21 schematically show how the coolant system 10A in the third embodiment can supply coolant to the machine tool 101. Figure 22 schematically shows how the coolant system 10A in the first modified example of the third embodiment can supply coolant to the machine tool 101. Figure 23 schematically shows how the coolant system 10A in the second modified example of the third embodiment can supply coolant to the machine tool 101. Figure 24 schematically shows the first removal device 14.

[0130] The third embodiment will primarily describe the differences from the first and second embodiments. On the other hand, the third embodiment will omit repetitive explanations of matters already described in the first or second embodiment. Therefore, it goes without saying that matters already described in the first or second embodiment can be applied to the third embodiment even if they are not explicitly explained. Conversely, matters described in the third embodiment can also be adopted in the first and second embodiments.

[0131] As illustrated in Figures 20 and 21, the coolant system 10A in the third embodiment includes a main tank 11 for storing coolant liquid L, a supply device 18 for supplying coolant liquid L from the main tank 11 to the machine tool 101, a foreign matter removal device 1, a first pump P1, and a first return flow path R1. In this embodiment, the coolant system 10A is configured to supply the first fluid E1 to the foreign matter removal device 1 from one main tank 11, but the first fluid E1 may be supplied to the foreign matter removal device 1 from multiple main tanks 11.

[0132] As illustrated in Figures 20 and 21, the foreign matter removal device 1 comprises (1) a flotation separation tank 2 to which a first fluid E1 containing coolant liquid L and foreign matter F is supplied and which causes the foreign matter F to float to the surface; (2) a rotating body 30 to which a portion is immersed in the first fluid E1 in the flotation separation tank 2 and to which the floated foreign matter F adheres; and (3) an impeller 40 driven by the first fluid E1 to rotate the rotating body 30.

[0133] As illustrated in Figure 20, the foreign matter removal device 1 may be the foreign matter removal device 1A in the first embodiment. As illustrated in Figure 21, the foreign matter removal device 1 may be the foreign matter removal device 1B in the second embodiment. Alternatively, the foreign matter removal device 1 may be any other foreign matter removal device. Since the foreign matter removal device 1A and the foreign matter removal device 1B have already been described in the first and second embodiments, respectively, a repetitive description of the foreign matter removal device 1A and the foreign matter removal device 1B will be omitted.

[0134] The first pump P1 sends the first fluid E1, which contains coolant liquid L and foreign matter F, from the main tank 11 to the foreign matter removal device 1.

[0135] The first return channel R1 returns the coolant liquid L from the foreign matter removal device 1 to the main tank 11.

[0136] The coolant system 10A in the third embodiment provides the same effect as the foreign matter removal device 1A in the first embodiment or the foreign matter removal device 1B in the second embodiment.

[0137] Furthermore, in the coolant system 10A of the third embodiment, foreign matter F is gradually removed from the first fluid E1 containing the coolant liquid L by circulating the fluid containing the coolant liquid L through the main tank 11, the foreign matter removal device 1, and the first return passage R1.

[0138] (Optional additional configuration) Next, with reference to Figures 1 to 24, optional additional configurations that can be adopted in the coolant system 10A in the third embodiment will be described.

[0139] (Chiller 13) As illustrated in Figures 22 and 23, the coolant system 10A may include a chiller 13 for cooling the coolant liquid L. In the example shown in Figures 22 and 23, the chiller 13 receives a first fluid E1 containing the coolant liquid L from the main tank 11 and cools the first fluid E1. The cooled first fluid E1 is returned to the main tank 11.

[0140] (Supply pipe 6) In the example shown in Figures 20 and 21, the coolant system 10A includes a supply pipe 6 connecting the main tank 11 and the flotation tank 2. The first pump P1 supplies a first fluid E1 from the main tank 11 to the flotation tank 2 via the supply pipe 6. A bubble generator 83 (more specifically, a microbubble generator 83a) may be provided in the supply pipe 6 (e.g., the first pipe 61). The supply pipe 6 may have a first pipe 61 connected to the flotation tank 2 and a second pipe 64 that supplies the first fluid E1 to the impeller 40. More specifically, the supply pipe 6 may have a main pipe 60, a branch section 601, a first pipe 61 connected to the main pipe 60 via the branch section 601, and a second pipe 64 connected to the main pipe 60 via the branch section 601.

[0141] When the first fluid E1 is supplied to the impeller 40 from the second pipe 64 using the first pump P1, the discharge pressure of the first fluid E1 can be made higher than atmospheric pressure. The relatively high discharge pressure of the first fluid E1 stabilizes the rotation of the impeller 40.

[0142] (Pump 1 P1) As illustrated in Figure 22, the first pump P1 may supply the first fluid E1 to both the machine tool 101 and the foreign matter removal device 1. In this case, there is no need to add a separate pump dedicated to the foreign matter removal device. In other words, the first pump P1 that supplies the coolant liquid L to the machine tool 101 can be used to supply the first fluid E1 to the foreign matter removal device 1.

[0143] In the example shown in Figure 22, the coolant system 10A includes a first supply channel M1 connecting the main tank 11 and the machine tool 101, and a branch channel CK branching off from the first supply channel M1. Furthermore, the supply pipe 6 connecting the main tank 11 and the flotation separator 2 is composed of a portion of the first supply channel M1 and the branch channel CK.

[0144] Alternatively, as illustrated in Figure 23, the first pump P1 may supply the first fluid E1 to both the chiller 13 and the foreign matter removal device 1. In this case, the first pump P1 that supplies the first fluid E1 to the chiller 13 can be used to supply the first fluid E1 to the foreign matter removal device 1.

[0145] In the example shown in Figure 23, the coolant system 10A includes a chiller 13, a first circulation channel C1 that returns from the main tank 11 through the chiller 13 to the main tank 11, and a branch channel CK that branches off from the first circulation channel C1. In addition, the supply pipe 6 connecting the main tank 11 and the flotation separator 2 is composed of a part of the first circulation channel C1 and the branch channel CK.

[0146] (Second return channel R2) In this specification, the coolant used to cool a tool or workpiece is defined as "used coolant L2". Also in this specification, the fluid containing the used coolant L2 and sludge D2 generated from the workpiece is defined as "dirty fluid J2". In the examples shown in Figures 20, 21, 22, and 23, the coolant system 10A includes a second return channel R2 through which the dirty fluid J2 flows from the machine tool 101 to the main tank 11. The second return channel R2 connects the machine tool 101 and the main tank 11. In the examples shown in Figures 22 and 23, the second return channel R2 returns the used coolant L2 (more specifically, the dirty fluid J2) from the machine tool 101 to a first region RG1 of the main tank 11.

[0147] In the examples shown in Figures 22 and 23, the dirty fluid J2 is collected in the main tank 11 via the second return channel R2. In the example shown in Figure 24, the dirty fluid J2 contains chips D1. The dirty fluid J2 may also contain oil.

[0148] (1st removal device 14) As illustrated in Figures 22 and 23, the coolant system 10A may include a first removal device 14 for removing large foreign objects (more specifically, chips D1) from the dirty fluid J2 containing the used coolant L2. In the example shown in Figures 22 and 23, the first removal device 14 removes large foreign objects (more specifically, chips D1) from the dirty fluid J2 flowing through the second return channel R2.

[0149] As illustrated in Figure 24, the first removal device 14 may include a chip conveyor 14a that removes large foreign objects (more specifically, chips D1) from the dirty fluid J2 containing used coolant L2. The first removal device 14 may also include a drum filter 14b that removes the chips D1. In the example shown in Figure 24, the drum filter 14b is located inside the chip conveyor 14a. The chips D1 are removed by both the chip conveyor 14a and the drum filter 14b.

[0150] (Second removal device 15) As illustrated in Figures 22 and 23, the coolant system 10A may include a second removal device 15 for removing small foreign matter (more specifically, sludge D2) from the dirty fluid J2, and a circulation channel (hereinafter referred to as the "second circulation channel C2") that returns from the main tank 11 through the second removal device 15 to the main tank 11. The coolant system 10A may also include a second pump P2 for sending the dirty fluid J2 containing used coolant liquid L2 from the main tank 11 to the second removal device 15.

[0151] In the examples shown in Figures 22 and 23, the second pump P2 pumps up the dirty fluid J2 from the first region RG1 of the main tank 11.

[0152] The second removal device 15 removes small foreign matter (more specifically, sludge D2) from the dirty fluid J2 pumped up by the second pump P2. As illustrated in Figures 22 and 23, the second removal device 15 may include a cyclone filter 15a that removes small foreign matter (more specifically, sludge D2) from the dirty fluid J2 flowing through the second circulation channel C2.

[0153] In this specification, the fluid remaining after small foreign matter (more specifically, sludge D2) has been removed from the dirty fluid J2 by ​​the second removal device 15 is defined as "treated fluid J1". In the examples shown in Figures 22 and 23, the fluid returned to the main tank 11 from the second circulation channel C2 is the treated fluid J1.

[0154] In the example shown in Figures 22 and 23, the second circulation channel C2 receives dirty fluid J2 containing used coolant L2 from the first region RG1 of the main tank 11 and returns the coolant L (more specifically, treated fluid J1) to the second region RG2 of the main tank 11.

[0155] In the examples shown in Figures 22 and 23, the first region RG1 is closer to the first removal device 14 than the second region RG2. Therefore, the dirty fluid J2 discharged from the first removal device 14 is smoothly pumped up by the second pump P2.

[0156] In the examples shown in Figures 22 and 23, the second region RG2 is closer to the intake port 6a of the supply pipe 6 compared to the first region RG1. Therefore, the treated fluid J1 discharged from the second circulation channel C2 is smoothly pumped up by the first pump P1.

[0157] In the examples shown in Figures 22 and 23, the first pump P1 supplies the treated fluid J1 discharged from the second circulation channel C2 as the first fluid E1 to the foreign matter removal device 1. When the first fluid E1 supplied to the foreign matter removal device 1 is the treated fluid J1, the rate at which sludge D2 accumulates in the flotation separator tank 2 of the foreign matter removal device 1 slows down.

[0158] In the examples shown in Figures 22 and 23, the dirty fluid J2 containing used coolant L2 is subjected to primary treatment by a first removal device 14, secondary treatment by a second removal device 15, and tertiary treatment by a foreign matter removal device 1. The first removal device 14 removes chips D1 from the dirty fluid J2. The second removal device 15 removes sludge D2 from the dirty fluid J2. The foreign matter removal device 1 separates fine particles (e.g., carbon powder) dispersed in the coolant L from the coolant L. The foreign matter removal device 1 can also separate oil contained in the first fluid E1 from the coolant L.

[0159] (Magnetic separator 16) As illustrated in Figures 22 and 23, the cyclone filter 15a may be connected to a magnetic separator 16 that attracts sludge D2 by magnets. The dirty fluid J2 separated from the sludge D2 by the cyclone filter 15a is discharged into the first region RG1 of the main tank 11.

[0160] (Agitator 17) As illustrated in Figures 22 and 23, the coolant system 10A may include an agitator 17. The agitator 17 agitates the coolant liquid L in the main tank 11. In the example shown in Figures 22 and 23, the agitator 17 includes an agitator nozzle 17a for discharging the coolant liquid L, a third circulation channel C3 for returning the coolant liquid L from the main tank 11 through the agitator nozzle 17a to the main tank 11, and a third pump P3 for sending the coolant liquid L from the main tank 11 to the agitator nozzle 17a.

[0161] As illustrated in Figures 22 and 23, the third pump P3 may supply coolant L to both the machine tool 101 and the agitator 17. In the example shown in Figures 22 and 23, the third pump P3 supplies coolant L from the main tank 11 to the machine tool 101 via the second supply channel M2.

[0162] If the coolant system 10A is equipped with an agitator 17, fine particles are dispersed in the coolant liquid L, and the accumulation of fine particles at the bottom of the main tank 11 is suppressed. The fine particles dispersed in the coolant liquid L are removed by the foreign matter removal device 1.

[0163] As illustrated in Figures 22 and 23, the stirring nozzle 17a may discharge the coolant liquid L in the direction from the second region RG2 toward the first region RG1. In this case, the sludge D2 in the first region RG1 is suppressed from moving toward the second region RG2.

[0164] In the examples shown in Figures 22 and 23, the first region RG1 and the second region RG2 are not separated from each other. Alternatively, a partition may be placed between the first region RG1 and the second region RG2. Also, the main tank 11 may be divided into multiple compartments.

[0165] (Feeding device 18) In the example shown in Figures 22 and 23, the coolant system 10A includes a supply device 18 that supplies coolant liquid L to the machine tool 101. The supply device 18 includes at least one supply channel M connecting the main tank 11 and the machine tool 101, and at least one pump P that supplies coolant liquid L from the main tank 11 to the machine tool 101 via the supply channel M.

[0166] As illustrated in Figures 22 and 23, at least one supply channel M connecting the main tank 11 and the machine tool 101 may include the first supply channel M1 and / or the second supply channel M2 described above. Alternatively, or additionally, at least one supply channel M connecting the main tank 11 and the machine tool 101 may include a third supply channel M3.

[0167] As illustrated in Figures 22 and 23, at least one pump P supplying coolant L from the main tank 11 to the machine tool 101 via at least one supply channel M may include a first pump P1 and / or a third pump P3. Alternatively, or additionally, the coolant system 10A may include a fourth pump P4 supplying coolant L from the main tank 11 to the machine tool 101 via a third supply channel M3.

[0168] (Coolant fluid L) The coolant liquid L is, for example, a water-soluble coolant liquid. The main component of the water-soluble coolant liquid is, for example, water. The water-soluble coolant liquid may also contain a water-soluble lubricant (for example, a water-soluble cutting fluid or a water-soluble grinding fluid) and / or a surfactant.

[0169] (Foreign object F) In the first to third embodiments, or in the fourth embodiment described later, the foreign matter F removed by the foreign matter removal device 1 includes fine particles. The foreign matter F removed by the foreign matter removal device 1 may contain carbon powder, silicon powder, or metal powder. The foreign matter F removed by the foreign matter removal device 1 may contain oil.

[0170] The foreign matter F removed from the first fluid E1 by the foreign matter removal device 1 includes, for example, fine particles that are difficult to remove by the second removal device 15 (more specifically, the cyclone filter 15a). When fine particles are removed by the foreign matter removal device 1, a large amount of fine particles are prevented from floating in the coolant liquid L in the main tank 11 for a long period of time.

[0171] The foreign matter F removed from the first fluid E1 by the foreign matter removal device 1 may include carbon powder generated when a casting (for example, FC material mainly composed of iron and containing 2.1 weight percent or more of carbon) is cut or ground. Fine carbon powder is difficult to remove by the cyclone filter 15a. Furthermore, carbon powder cannot be removed by the magnetic separator 16.

[0172] If a large amount of fine particles (e.g., fine carbon powder) remain in the main tank 11, the filters located in the supply channel M, etc., may become clogged. Furthermore, filter clogging or other issues may necessitate maintenance of the coolant system 10A. Thus, the operation of the coolant system 10A may be disrupted. In contrast, in the coolant system 10A of the third embodiment, the fine particles are gradually removed by the foreign matter removal device 1, thereby reducing the frequency of maintenance of the coolant system 10A. In addition, the reduced maintenance frequency reduces the workload on the operator.

[0173] If the coolant liquid L discharged into the machine tool 101 contains a large amount of particulate matter (e.g., fine carbon powder), the cooling or lubrication properties of the coolant liquid L may deteriorate. This problem can be avoided by frequently replacing the coolant liquid L, but this would incur replacement costs. Furthermore, if the coolant liquid L discharged into the machine tool 101 contains a large amount of particulate matter (e.g., fine carbon powder), the tool life may be reduced. Also, if the particulate matter contains carbon powder, the machine tool 101 may become contaminated with carbon powder. In the coolant system 10A of the third embodiment, the amount of particulate matter contained in the coolant liquid L discharged into the machine tool 101 is reduced because the particulate matter is removed by the foreign matter removal device 1.

[0174] (Fourth embodiment) The machine tool system 100 in the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 28. Figures 20 and 21 are schematic diagrams showing the machine tool system 100 in the fourth embodiment. Figure 22 is a schematic diagram showing the machine tool system 100 in a first modification of the fourth embodiment. Figure 23 is a schematic diagram showing the machine tool system 100 in a second modification of the fourth embodiment. Figure 25 is a schematic perspective view showing an example of a machine tool 101. Figure 26 is a schematic perspective view showing another example of a machine tool 101. Figure 27 is a schematic perspective view showing yet another example of a machine tool 101. Figure 28 is a schematic diagram showing how the coolant system 10 can supply coolant to multiple machine tools.

[0175] The fourth embodiment will primarily describe the differences from the first, second, and third embodiments. On the other hand, the fourth embodiment will omit repetitive explanations of matters already described in the first, second, or third embodiments. Therefore, it goes without saying that even if not explicitly explained in the fourth embodiment, matters already described in the first, second, or third embodiments can be applied to the fourth embodiment.

[0176] As illustrated in Figures 20, 21, 22, and 23, the machine tool system 100 in the fourth embodiment comprises a machine tool 101 and a coolant system 10 that supplies coolant liquid to the machine tool. In this embodiment, the machine tool system 100 comprises one machine tool 101, but it may comprise multiple machine tools 101.

[0177] As illustrated in Figure 25, the machine tool 101 includes a work support device 102 for supporting the workpiece W, a machining head 103 for holding the tool T, a moving device 104 for moving the machining head 103 relative to the work support device 102, and a discharge device 105 (more specifically, a discharge nozzle 1050) for discharging coolant liquid.

[0178] As illustrated in Figure 25, the machine tool 101 may be a machining center 101a. Alternatively, as illustrated in Figure 26, the machine tool 101 may be a lathe 101b. Further alternatively, as illustrated in Figure 27, the machine tool 101 may be a grinding machine 101c.

[0179] As illustrated in Figures 20, 21, 22, and 23, the coolant system 10 includes (1) a main tank 11 for storing coolant liquid L, (2) a supply device 18 for supplying coolant liquid from the main tank 11 to the machine tool 101, (3) a foreign matter removal device 1, (4) a first pump P1 for sending a first fluid E1 containing coolant liquid L and foreign matter F from the main tank 11 to the foreign matter removal device 1, and (5) a first return passage R1 for returning the coolant liquid L from the foreign matter removal device 1 to the main tank 11.

[0180] The coolant system 10 may be the coolant system 10A in the third embodiment, or it may be any other coolant system. Since the coolant system 10A has already been described in the third embodiment, a repetitive description of the coolant system 10A will be omitted.

[0181] As illustrated in Figures 20 and 21, the foreign matter removal device 1 comprises (1) a flotation separation tank 2 to which a first fluid E1 containing coolant liquid L and foreign matter F is supplied and which causes the foreign matter F to float to the surface; (2) a rotating body 30 to which a portion is immersed in the first fluid E1 in the flotation separation tank 2 and to which the floated foreign matter F adheres; and (3) an impeller 40 driven by the first fluid E1 to rotate the rotating body 30.

[0182] The foreign matter removal device 1 may be the foreign matter removal device 1A in the first embodiment, the foreign matter removal device 1B in the second embodiment, or any other foreign matter removal device.

[0183] The machine tool system 100 in the fourth embodiment provides the same effects as the foreign matter removal device 1A in the first embodiment, the foreign matter removal device 1B in the second embodiment, or the coolant system 10A in the third embodiment.

[0184] (Optional additional configuration) Next, with reference to Figures 1 to 28, optional additional configurations that can be adopted in the machine tool system 100 in the fourth embodiment will be described.

[0185] (Discharge device 105) As illustrated in Figures 25 and 26, the discharge device 105 may include a first discharge device 105a that discharges coolant liquid toward the workpiece W. In the example shown in Figures 22 and 23, a fourth pump P4 may be configured to supply coolant liquid L to the first discharge device 105a via a third supply channel M3. Alternatively, in the example shown in Figure 22, a first pump P1 may be configured to supply coolant liquid L to the first discharge device 105a via a first supply channel M1. Further alternatively, in the example shown in Figures 22 and 23, a third pump P3 may be configured to supply coolant liquid L to the first discharge device 105a via a second supply channel M2, or other pumps may be configured to supply coolant liquid L to the first discharge device 105a via other supply channels.

[0186] As illustrated in Figure 25, the discharge device 105 may include a second discharge device 105b that discharges coolant to the tool T so that the coolant passes through the inside of the tool T. In the examples shown in Figures 22 and 23, a fourth pump P4 may be configured to supply coolant L to the second discharge device 105b via a third supply passage M3. Alternatively, in the example shown in Figure 22, a first pump P1 may be configured to supply coolant L to the second discharge device 105b via a first supply passage M1. Further alternatives, in the examples shown in Figures 22 and 23, a third pump P3 may be configured to supply coolant L to the second discharge device 105b via a second supply passage M2, or other pumps may be configured to supply coolant L to the second discharge device 105b via other supply passages.

[0187] A filter may be placed in the supply channel that supplies coolant liquid L from the main tank 11 to the discharge device 105.

[0188] (Work W) The workpiece W may be a cast iron Wa or a workpiece other than a cast iron. The cast iron Wa may be made of FC material. The FC material is mainly composed of iron and contains 2.1 weight percent or more of carbon.

[0189] (Second return channel R2) In the examples shown in Figures 22 and 23, the second return channel R2 returns the dirty fluid J2, which includes the used coolant L2 (more specifically, the coolant discharged from the discharge device 105 and in contact with the workpiece W) and the sludge D2 generated from the workpiece W, to the main tank 11. The second return channel R2 may also return the dirty fluid J2, which includes the coolant discharged from the first discharge device 105a, the coolant discharged from the second discharge device 105b, and the sludge D2 generated from the workpiece W, to the main tank 11.

[0190] (Multiple machine tools) As illustrated in Figure 28, the machine tool system 100 may include a second machine tool 108 in addition to the machine tool 101. In the example shown in Figure 28, the coolant system 10 supplies coolant to the multiple machine tools (101, 108).

[0191] In the example shown in Figure 28, the coolant system 10 includes a second return channel R2 that returns used coolant L2 (more specifically, dirty fluid J2) from the machine tool 101 to the main tank 11, as well as a third return channel R3 that returns used coolant L2 (more specifically, dirty fluid J2) from the second machine tool 108 to the main tank 11.

[0192] The present invention is not limited to the embodiments or modifications described above, and it is clear that each embodiment or modification can be appropriately modified or changed within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention. Furthermore, the various technologies used in each embodiment or modification can be applied to other embodiments or other modifications, as long as no technical inconsistencies arise. In addition, any optional additional configurations in each embodiment or modification can be omitted as appropriate. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0193] 1, 1A, 1B... Foreign matter removal device, 2... Floating separation tank, 6... Supply pipe, 6a... Intake port, 7... Clean tank, 10, 10A... Coolant system, 11... Main tank, 13... Chiller, 14... First removal device, 14a... Chip conveyor, 14b... Drum filter, 15... Second removal device, 15a... Cyclone filter, 16... Magnetic separator, 17... Agitator, 17a... Agitation nozzle, 18... Supply device, 21... Partition wall, 21c... Pass-through port, 21u... Upper end of partition wall, 22... First part of floating separation tank, 23... Second part of floating separation tank, 26... First tank, 27... Second tank, 30... Times 30-1...First part of the rotating body, 30-2...Second part of the rotating body, 30a...One end of the rotating body, 30b...Other end of the rotating body, 30w...Lower end of the rotating body, 31...Cylindrical body, 31a...Cross bar, 40...Impeller, 40a...Blades, 41...Shaft member, 41s...Shaft, 42...Power transmission mechanism, 42g...Gear, 45...Motor, 46...Scraper, 46e...Edge part, 46w...Lower end of scraper, 48...Foreign matter collection chamber, 49...Wall, 60...Main pipe, 61...First pipe, 64...Second pipe, 64m...Fluid outlet, 65...First adjustment member, 65a...Adjustment handle, 81...Support member, 83...Bubble generator, 83 a...Microbubble generator, 84...Cover, 85...Partition, 85c...Connection port, 87...Discharge port, 88...Second adjustment member, 88a...Screw member, 89...Discharge pipe, 100...Machine tool system, 101...Machine tool, 101a...Machining center, 101b...Lathe, 101c...Grinding device, 102...Work support device, 103...Processing head, 104...Moving device, 105...Discharge device, 105a...First discharge device, 105b...Second discharge device, 108...Second machine tool, 261...Defoaming cover, 310...Outer surface, 310a...Outer surface of horizontal bar, 460...Top surface of scraper, 491...Opening, 491 c...notch, 491w...lower end of opening, 601...branch, 871...overflow opening, 1050...discharge nozzle, AT1...rotating shaft of rotating body, AT2...rotating shaft of impeller, AX1...first shaft, BU...bubble, C1...first circulation channel, C2...second circulation channel, C3...third circulation channel, CK...branch channel, D1...chip, D2...sludge, DR1...first direction, DR2...second direction, DR3...third direction, E1...first fluid, ES...liquid level, F...foreign matter, FA...aggregate, GP...gap, J1...treated fluid, J2...dirty fluid, L...coolant liquid, L2...used coolant liquid, LS...liquid levelM... Supply channel, M1... First supply channel, M2... Second supply channel, M3... Third supply channel, OP1... Opening, P... Pump, P1... First pump, P2... Second pump, P3... Third pump, P4... Fourth pump, PN... Pump, Q... Opening, Q1... Slit, R1... First return channel, R2... Second return channel, R3... Third return channel, RA... Region directly below the rotating body, RG1... First region, RG2... Second region, SN... Sensor, T... Tool, U1... First unit, W... Workpiece, Wa... Casting

Claims

1. A first fluid containing coolant liquid and foreign matter is supplied, and a flotation separation tank is used to float the foreign matter, A rotating body to which the floating foreign matter adheres, which is partially submerged in the first fluid in the flotation separation tank, An impeller driven by the first fluid rotates the rotating body and It is equipped with, The axis of rotation of the aforementioned rotating body is coaxial with the axis of rotation of the impeller. Foreign matter removal device.

2. The first fluid that drove the impeller flows into the flotation separator. The foreign matter removal device according to claim 1.

3. The device comprises a supply pipe for supplying the first fluid, The aforementioned supply pipe is A first pipe connected to the flotation separator, A second pipe that supplies the first fluid to the impeller and has A foreign matter removal device according to claim 1 or 2.

4. A flotation separator is supplied with a first fluid containing coolant liquid and foreign matter, and the foreign matter is made to float to the surface. A rotating body to which the floating foreign matter adheres, which is partially submerged in the first fluid in the flotation separation tank, An impeller driven by the first fluid rotates the rotating body, A supply pipe for supplying the first fluid and It is equipped with, The aforementioned supply pipe is A first pipe connected to the flotation separator, A second pipe that supplies the first fluid to the impeller and It has, The height of the fluid outlet of the second pipe is higher than the liquid level of the first fluid. Foreign matter removal device.

5. A flotation separator is supplied with a first fluid containing coolant liquid and foreign matter, and the foreign matter is made to float to the surface. A rotating body to which the floating foreign matter adheres, which is partially submerged in the first fluid in the flotation separation tank, An impeller driven by the first fluid rotates the rotating body and It is equipped with, With the lower end of the impeller immersed in the first fluid, the impeller is driven by the first fluid. Foreign matter removal device.

6. The outer circumferential surface of the rotating body allows the coolant liquid to pass through. A foreign matter removal device according to claim 1 or 2.

7. A flotation separator is supplied with a first fluid containing coolant liquid and foreign matter, and the foreign matter is made to float to the surface. A rotating body to which the floating foreign matter adheres, which is partially submerged in the first fluid in the flotation separation tank, An impeller driven by the first fluid rotates the rotating body, A partition wall separating the impeller and the rotating body. It is equipped with, The height of the upper end of the partition wall is higher than the liquid level of the first fluid. Foreign matter removal device.

8. The device further comprises a bubble generator that generates bubbles in the first fluid, The bubbles generated by the bubble generator cause the foreign matter to float in the flotation separation tank. A foreign matter removal device according to claim 1 or 2.

9. The system further comprises a scraper for scooping up foreign matter from the rotating body. A foreign matter removal device according to claim 1 or 2.

10. The system further comprises a foreign matter collection chamber where the aforementioned foreign matter is accumulated. The aforementioned scraper is, The edge portion facing the rotating body, The upper surface on which the foreign object moves toward the foreign object collection chamber and It has, The aforementioned upper surface is an inclined surface that slopes downward as it approaches the foreign matter collection chamber. The foreign matter removal device according to claim 9.

11. A flotation separator is supplied with a first fluid containing coolant liquid and foreign matter, and the foreign matter is made to float to the surface. A rotating body to which the floating foreign matter adheres, which is partially submerged in the first fluid in the flotation separation tank, An impeller driven by the first fluid rotates the rotating body, A clean tank into which the coolant liquid, separated from the foreign matter, flows. A partition separating the flotation separation tank and the clean tank. It is equipped with, The partition is provided with a connection port through which the coolant liquid passes. Foreign matter removal device.

12. A flotation separator is supplied with a first fluid containing coolant liquid and foreign matter, and the foreign matter is made to float to the surface. A rotating body to which the floating foreign matter adheres, which is partially submerged in the first fluid in the flotation separation tank, An impeller driven by the first fluid rotates the rotating body and It is equipped with, The aforementioned flotation separator is A defoaming cover is placed in the first tank into which the first fluid flows, The second tank into which the first fluid, which has moved above the defoaming cover, flows including Foreign matter removal device.

13. The main tank for storing coolant, A supply device that supplies the coolant liquid from the main tank to the machine tool, Foreign object removal device, A first pump sends a first fluid containing the coolant liquid and foreign matter from the main tank to the foreign matter removal device, A first return channel that returns the coolant liquid from the foreign matter removal device back to the main tank, It is equipped with, The aforementioned foreign matter removal device is A flotation separation tank to which the first fluid is supplied and which causes the foreign matter to float, A rotating body to which the floating foreign matter adheres, which is partially submerged in the first fluid in the flotation separation tank, An impeller driven by the first fluid rotates the rotating body and Equipped with, The axis of rotation of the aforementioned rotating body is coaxial with the axis of rotation of the impeller. Coolant system.

14. Machine tools and, A coolant system that supplies coolant to the machine tool It is equipped with, The aforementioned machine tool is A workpiece support device that supports the workpiece, A machining head that holds the tool, A moving device for moving the machining head relative to the workpiece support device, A discharge device for discharging the coolant and Equipped with, The coolant system is A main tank for storing the aforementioned coolant liquid, A supply device that supplies the coolant liquid from the main tank to the machine tool, Foreign object removal device, A first pump sends a first fluid containing the coolant liquid and foreign matter from the main tank to the foreign matter removal device, A first return channel that returns the coolant liquid from the foreign matter removal device back to the main tank, Equipped with, The aforementioned foreign matter removal device is A flotation separation tank to which the first fluid is supplied and which causes the foreign matter to float, A rotating body to which the floating foreign matter adheres, which is partially submerged in the first fluid in the flotation separation tank, An impeller driven by the first fluid rotates the rotating body and Equipped with, The axis of rotation of the aforementioned rotating body is coaxial with the axis of rotation of the impeller. Machine tool systems.

Images