When I first received my PCNC 1100 I realized that the single coolant nozzle often got blocked by clamps and part features so I created a manifold and added 3 nozzles that I could point from various angles. This necessitated going to smaller nozzles so I could maintain some pressure at the nozzles. Overall, I was not impressed with the systems ability to flush away chips as the flow and pressure from each nozzle was marginal. Also, I use a sink sprayer to wash down the table and coolant tray after machining and the flow and pressure was just barely enough to move the chips.
So I decided to upgrade the coolant pump and tank to twice the horsepower and twice the resevoir capacity. Surprisingly, this did little for the flow and its ability to flush away chips. In looking at larger coolant pumps I noticed that prices got exorbitant with each larger horspower increment. So while I was in Home Depot one day I noticed a 1/2 horsepower shallow well pump that was reasonably priced $175.00 and decided to try it. It is capable of 80 psi and up to 660 gallon per hour flow. I needed to make a couple of minor modifications along with changing the 3 nozzles from 1/8 in. diameter to 1/4 in. diameter each. After a couple hours I got it working and have to say I am truley amazed! I actually have to throttle back the flow some (without having a full enclosure) but still flushes chips away remarkably well. The sink spray works as if it were connected to my home water system.
So far I have been using the pump for about 3 weeks now and have been thrilled with the result. The only issue I had was that there is now more coolant up in the pan at one time so I needed more coolant capacity in the resevoir to be on the safe side. So I purchased a 25 gallon rubbermaid storage container, and doubled the return lines. Now all I need is a full enclosure!
I will post some thotos when I get time if anyone is interested.