A New Look at a Traditional Preservative System in Metalworking Fluids
The complexity of the metalworking fluid and the typical
manufacturing environment provides the indigenous micro flora the
ideal conditions (pH, water, nutrients and temperature) for microbial
growth. Due to these conditions, biological control is a major concern
for the metalworking fluid industry. Recent concerns with the workers
exposure to high levels of biological contamination and stricter
wastewater effluents, have force many companies to review their
biocide program (e.g. Triazines). The focus of this paper is around the
misconception of orthophenylphenol and its impact on the
environment. Orthophenylphenol (OPP) and its salts continue to be a workhorse biocide in the metalworking industry. OPP has a good
toxic package, efficacy against a broad spectrum of microorganisms
including mycobacteria and it’s compatibility with amine boosters
make it an effective biocide for the metalworking fluid industry.