Production has become more efficient with modern methods, but why is not the same search for efficiency around process fluid treatment?
In recent years the industry has experienced a rapid development, with new procedures to raise efficiency being introduced, making it possible to drastically increase productivity. It has created a culture where each millisecond in production is measured and registered, to subsequently constitute the basis for continuous work to make improvements.
However, metalworking fluid management has been forgotten in this hunt for efficiency and has remained the same for almost 30 years. It is frightening to observe how some machine manufacturers have equipped their highly productive machines with metalworking fluid tanks and filters which are beneath all criticism and which will inevitably lead to production stoppages.The machine is purchased as it has fast machining times and tool changes or it has an exceptional cutting performance. The aim is to increase productivity, however, this is impaired by not taking into account the metalworking fluid in the calculations.
The next step for industry is to catch up with metalworking fluid management. In the future, the industry will not be able to afford to disregard metalworking fluid. The same requirements will be placed on it as on the rest of the operation.
Customer requirements together with certification will also drive change.
The future of metalworking fluid management will therefore require real-time checks of its most important parameters. This will be an input for automated adjustment, for example, dosing of components.
Less chemicals
In line with more and more chemicals being investigated, and negative health effects revealed, the willingness to use them will decrease.
This will lead to metalworking fluids that are more sensitive to microbiological growth. A metalworking fluid without toxins will place higher requirements on filter systems, pipe systems and tanks. Metalworking fluid management will also need to be more accurate when the fluids become more unstable.
Major changes are under way which require a new and alternative way of thinking surrounding metalworking fluids. The fluids will play a greater roll in production in the future, but isn't it about time?
We have developed a cost calculator where you can find out exactly what your process fluid costs and where there are potential savings.
(JÖ)
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