Fusion Coolant Systems

Fusion Coolant Systems, founded in 2009 by Dr. Steven Skerlos, emerged as a tech transfer startup from the University of Michigan. Dr. Skerlos, a Professor of Mechanical and Environmental Engineering, leveraged his deep expertise in sustainable technology and manufacturing to pioneer the company's core technology. His journey includes co-founding another successful startup, Accuri Cytometers, reflecting a strong background in commercializing scientific breakthroughs.

The company provides a patented coolant and lubrication system for the CNC machining industry, targeting sectors with high-precision needs such as aerospace, medical device, and automotive manufacturing. Its business centers on selling or leasing its Pure-Cut® and Pure-Cut®+ systems, which integrate with existing machine tools. A "hardware as a service" model is available, reducing upfront capital expenditure for clients. The company's value proposition is rooted in enhancing client profitability by increasing machining speeds, extending the life of cutting tools, improving surface finish, and eliminating the costs and health hazards associated with traditional, toxic oil-based coolants.

Fusion Coolant Systems' key product, Pure-Cut®, utilizes supercritical carbon dioxide (sCO2) as a cutting fluid. This process delivers highly effective cooling and lubrication directly to the cutting zone, enabling faster and cleaner machining of materials like polymers, high-temperature alloys, stainless steel, and aluminum. The Pure-Cut® system operates with additive-free CO2 for applications demanding absolute cleanliness, such as medical implants. The Pure-Cut®+ version combines sCO2 with a minimal quantity of lubricant for applications where achieving the longest possible tool life and the fastest cycle times is critical. This technology is positioned as a sustainable alternative that reduces a factory's carbon footprint and eliminates toxic waste streams, a distinction recognized by a 2020 EPA Green Chemistry Challenge Award.

Keywords: supercritical CO2, CNC machining, coolant technology, metalworking fluids, Pure-Cut, sustainable manufacturing, aerospace machining, medical device manufacturing, automotive manufacturing, cutting tool life, dry machining, lubrication system, Steven Skerlos, University of Michigan spinout, advanced manufacturing, clean technology, industrial coolant, precision machining, high-temperature alloys, machining efficiency, manufacturing cost reduction