MagLube’s most asked questions about our MQL systems
1- What is Minimum Quantity Lubrication?
Minimum Quantity Lubrication is a method of lubricating a cutting tool with minute amounts of high-grade lubricant, mixed with air to reduce friction that causes heat during various machining processes.
MagLube MQL used correctly will deliver small amounts of high-grade lubricant directly to the cutting edge of a tool. This will create a barrier between the tool and work piece which will drastically reduce the friction that causes your tool to heat up.
The heat that is created is then carried away with the chips, prolonging the life of the tool.
2- Will converting to MQL from flood cooling save our company money?
Converting to MQL can save your company money in several ways. First, because of how little oil is used, it is a more efficient and cost-effective method to lubricate your cutting tools. Because our high-grade oil creates a barrier between your cutting tool and workpiece, your tool life will increase dramatically.
Read this testimonial about how MagLube MQL systems increased tool life
Converting to MQL will save your company time because there is little to no clean up of parts and machines.
Chips that are dry have a higher recycling value than chips that are soaked in water-based oils.
With MQL higher feeds and speeds are possible, so higher production rates are possible.
MQL also has no excess oil left over and there’s no disposal needed after a run. So, after converting to minimum quantity lubrication methods, that cost is eliminated.
3- How can using a microscopic amount of micro lubricant work better than quenching with flood coolants?
Using MagLube high grade lubricants in the correct way will increase productivity and lengthen tool life. By atomizing our high-grade lubricant and delivering it directly to the cutting edge of a tool, it’ll form a protective film that drastically reduces the friction that causes wear on your cutting tools. This is made possible because the heat that is generated can dissipate through the chip.
Flood Coolants on the other hand are not only messy and hazardous, they only treat the symptoms of the problem by quenching the heat that’s already occurred. This heating up and cooling down of your cutting tools creates a thermal shock which will result in cracks that will weaken the tool causing them to fail much sooner.
4. What types of machines and manufacturing processes will MQL systems work for?
Some of our most common and successful applications include but are not limited to:
- 3/4/5 Axis Milling Machines (CNC & Manual)
- Single & Multi Spindle Drilling Machines
- CNC Routing Machines
- Bandsaws (Horizonal, Vertical & Mitering)
- Circular Saws
- Roll Forming Machines
- Stamping & Punch Presses (Coil Fed & Manual Fed)
- CNC & Manual Turning Centers
This list covers almost every machine and process being used in today’s, 21st century industrial manufacturing facilities. However, if you’re using any type process that’s producing heat during a cutting, stamping, routing, molding or other manufacturing processes, our MQL systems from MagLube will optimize your process, saving you time and money.
We typically provide our customers with a professionally designed, custom MQL lubrication system. But we’ve also put together some complete MQL system packages that will allow your company to discover just how efficient our systems can be for you. These packages are somewhat portable and versatile and can be set up quickly on just about any type machine. Check out the selection of MQL system package here.
Flood Coolants on the other hand are not only messy and hazardous, they only treat the symptoms of the problem by quenching the heat that’s already occurred. This heating up and cooling down of your cutting tools creates a thermal shock which will result in cracks that will weaken the tool causing them to fail much sooner.
5. Does Maglube have an MQL system package we can set up to test how it works?
MagLube offers a Manual Mill / Lathe MQL Package on our website that can be used to test our systems and lubricant to evaluate its performance. Click on the link below to find out more:
Manual Mill/Lathe MQL System Package
If you’re using a bandsaw, we’ve also assembled an all-inclusive bandsaw MQL system that has everything needed to be up and running in minutes.
Click here to see the Bandsaw Package and pricing.
The Manual Mill/Lathe MQL Package can be adapted to other types of machines. But to test a system that may be a bit more precise for your specific needs, please contact us today so we can put you together a custom order.
For more complex manufacturing:
If you have different applications and you’re interested in setting up a trial, please contact one of our applications engineers from MagLube to set up a demo at your facility.
info@maglube.com or 1-800-441-2023
