If manufacturers have learned one thing these last couple years, it’s that optimizing their metalworking processes to be as efficient as possible is not an option anymore. Every part of their manufacturing process needs to be running in the most cost-effective way, while also producing high quality products.
Global prices for every facet of manufacturing have risen
The global pandemic, supply chain challenges and inflation have sky-rocketed the prices of almost everything. From the metals used, to the machinery, to systems and lubricants used to produce products and keep the metalworking machinery running efficiently. All of these factors, no matter how seemingly insignificant, have forced companies to modernize their manufacturing processes in order to maintain reasonable profits.
All these issues have left many American based companies scrambling to find better solutions closer to home. It is possible to find more efficient, higher quality solutions made right here in the USA.
MQL systems and lubricants optimize the metalworking process
What is a MQL System and How Does It Benefit the Machining Industry?
MQL or Minimum Quantity Lubrication is an alternative lubrication system to the traditional metalworking fluids utilized in machining facilities. Often called Minimal Quantity Lubrication, Near-Dry Machining or Micro-Lubrication, this process can be difficult to understand if you’re used to the MWFs that most metalworking machines come pre-equipped with. Though the concept is different, a MQL system has a variety of benefits to those in the machining and metalworking industries.
Rather than using the traditional flood coolant methods, a MQL system will utilize an eco-friendly, biodegradable organic lubricant instead, and in microscopic quantities. Since a MQL applicator will only use around 8 ounces of lubrication within a regular 8-hour shift, the immense cost savings a MQL system provides is incredibly cost-effective. Not only that, but this system also reduces the toxic mess created with transferring coolants from one machine to the other.
Micro-lubrication efficiency surpasses MWFs in every way
The micro-lubrication method also can be custom designed and retro-fitted to any metalworking machine, rather than the one-size-fits-all method of MWFs. MQL works on all of them; bandsaws, drill presses, manual mill machines and amazingly well on CNC routers and other CNC type setups.
Though the use of flood coolants as MWFs may seem optimal, there are a multitude of reasons it’s not as effective or efficient as MQL. With MWFs, the coolant needs to be run through other equipment to recirculate, filter, test, and treat it in order to avoid bacterial contamination when used. This not only runs the risk of affecting your workers’ health, but it also drastically increases costs. That’s due to sheer amounts of coolants having to be used which can be gallons per day, instead of ounces like MQL systems. Also, the post-production cleanup of machinery and parts being produced is time consuming, expensive and chemically hazardous. These drawbacks should be considered when considering long term efficiency.
Why aren’t more manufacturers transitioning to MQL systems?
If MQL technology is such a clear advantage, why are only a small percentage of manufacturers actually investing in innovative production technologies such as MQL? This is a question that deserves some consideration.
Why, even with laws and regulations that could benefit them using a more eco-friendly solution, are the majority of manufacturers not taking steps to improve their production practices? Isn’t it their responsibility to ensure the environment isn’t compromised in their manufacturing processes? We think so.
Maybe some manufacturers fear new technologies? Maybe they are used to the older traditional methods and after all… if it’s working, why make the change?
We’ve seen that most just don’t want to invest the time and expense of transitioning. However, when all factors are considered… making the switch would absolutely be more economical in the long run.
The investment laid out to make the change would literally pay for itself within a couple years… or even a few months in some cases.
Quality of products will be more important in 2022 – 2023
Maybe one of the biggest advantages of switching to MQL systems and lubricants is the quality of the end product.
It’s no secret that most consumers and retailers are seeing the advantage of buying products made and sourced in the USA. That’s because in almost every situation, products made in the USA are of a higher quality.
MagLube MQL and organic lubricants out-perform traditional MWF type cooling systems. The lubricity of our eco-friendly lubricants is much more effective than flood coolants. For example when used with CNC routers and an aluminum workpiece… our LD -300 L is found to have up to 300 times more lubricity than MWF competitors.
This allows for more precise cuts, cheaper production costs and higher quality end products. Because it can be performed in the USA, there’s no supply chain issues. China can’t do this!
Speak to a MagLube specialists – Discover the MQL advantage
Not sure Micro-lubrication is a good fit for your machining and metalworking processes? Contact a MagLube specialist today. Let’s discuss your set up, machines, types of end products being produced and create a newer, more modern and cost-effective solution for your manufacturing going into 2022 and beyond.
Fill out the contact form on this page or call us toll-free: (800) 441-2023
We look forward to hearing from you.
Don’t forget to ask about a Free sample of our most popular organic machining lubricant. You will never produce higher quality end products than when using MagLube eco-friendly lubricants.
