Systems and methods for removing micro-particles from a metalworking fluid

A method for removing metal particles from a contaminated metalworking fluid comprising emulsion droplets and metal particles, the method comprising:

• pressurizing the contaminated metalworking fluid with gas in a pressurization vessel to provide an aerated metalworking fluid;
• flowing the aerated metalworking fluid from the bottom of the pressurization vessel to a coagulation channel;
• applying a shear force to the aerated metalworking fluid to separate the emulsion droplets from the metal particles;
• reducing the pressure of the aerated metalworking fluid to provide a plurality of bubbles, wherein the reducing the pressure occurs after applying the shear force and while the emulsion droplets are separated from the metal particles;
• flowing the aerated metalworking fluid in a laminar flow through the coagulation channel to a floatation tank, wherein the laminar flow lasts for a time sufficient for the plurality of bubbles to attach to the metal particles;
• releasing the aerated metalworking fluid into the flotation tank;
• and
• removing the metal particles to provide a clean metalworking fluid.