Sludge accumulated

[Malekrocks]

Hi
How does sludge accumulation in tank affect the saw function ?
I use a 14" LSS , sludge reached over one inch already.
Thanks
Malek

[Rusted]

Hi Malek, welcome.
It's really only a problem when it builds up so much that there is not enough cutting fluid to cool and lubricate the cut, Probably at an inch deep it might be time to desludge. I don't do a complete clean out every time, just drain the oil and scrape the sludge out of the bottom of the tank. When it starts building up all over the vice and everywhere then I drain and do a full clean, not too often as it's not my favourite job.
You can reuse your oil by straining it, I stretch an old pillow case over a 20l bucket and strain it through that, the oil comes out surprisingly clean if you just let it run through at its own speed.

[Aussie Sapphire]

Dirty oil and excessive sludge is a problem as it increases wear on saw parts and reduces lifespan and cutting performance of the blade.  As Rusted notes, you can clean your cutting oil so that the cost of replacing it is reduced.  Filter it through any suitable material and re-use - using clean oil will significantly improve cutting performance and reduce wear/tear on the saw itself.

There are oil recycling units you can fit to your saw to do this job automatically.  The commercially available ones are not cheap but I know of a couple of clubs who have made their own.  They still need to replace cutting oil but much much less frequently resulting in a cost saving and it is better for the saw to be using clean oil.

But very do-able to clean oil manually - just a bit slower and fiddly.

cheers
Leah

[steve f]

i just use water and a cap full of soluble oil.
nothing rusts and its cheap.

[Aussie Sapphire]

i just use water and a cap full of soluble oil.
nothing rusts and its cheap.

What size saw?  That might work for you but it is NOT recommended by any manufacturer of the larger slab saws.

cheers
Leah

[steve f]

only small saws, 6'' and 10''

[Aussie Sapphire]

only small saws, 6'' and 10''

That is completely different to a large 14" slab saw.

The advice you have given is not appropriate for a power feed slab saw.

Cheers Leah

[steve f]

someone needs a hug

[Dihusky]

At 1.5m