With
the rising cost pressures, demand for specific attention from metal working facility
managers has risen. Task force and focus groups need to be assigned to evaluate
fluid application technology and reduce consumption. Which brings forth the concept
of " dry machining " an alternative application process that has been around for
more than 30 years. It has been largely sold to the aftermarket, since machine
tool builders have been to reluctant to change their basic tool designs. The use
of minute applications made of primarily pure vegetable oil based lubricants in
machining operations can reduce heat, speed production improve surface finish,
improve tool life and reduce housekeeping while eliminating the collecting, treating,
and disposal considerations associated with flood coolants.
The high
penetration strength of microscopic lubricating film on the tool reduces friction,
thus reducing heat generation and the subsequent need to remove heat. The lubricants
are safe, nontoxic, biodegradable, and sometimes water soluble Reliable, consistent,
and controllable precise application is critical to obtaining optimum results.
The increased use of coolant feed tools and computer programmable nozzles on CNC
machines makes precise, minimal, fluid application a viable, realistic alternative
to flood systems Every sawing,tapping, drilling, and milling application is a
candidate for this proven method. Turning and grinding applications are also good
candidates. Equipment can be installed retroactively to existing machines if made
part of the purchasing specifications. With the use of " dry machining" the user
can have dry chips, dry parts, clean machines, and clean air without the use of
recycling treatments and the or disposal fluids.
