Benefits Of Minimum Quantity Lubrication (MQL)

In the bustling world of metalworking, efficiency reigns supreme. Every shaved second, every saved gram of material, every reduction in waste translates to a competitive edge. Enter Minimum Quantity Lubrication (MQL), a revolutionary technique that’s not just changing the game, it’s rewriting the rules.

What is MQL?

Imagine ditching the flood of messy coolants and replacing it with a precise mist, delivering just the right amount of lubricant directly to the tool-workpiece interface. That’s MQL in a nutshell. This micro-lubrication technique uses a fraction of the lubricant compared to traditional methods, often measured in mere milliliters per hour, while delivering a surprising array of benefits.

Benefits of MQL:

• Environmental Hero: MQL slashes lubricant consumption, leading to less waste disposal and reduced environmental impact. Think cleaner air, happier ecosystems, and a smaller carbon footprint for your manufacturing process.
• Reduction in Fluid Consumption & Storage Space: Moreover, MQL results in a substantial reduction in fluid consumption, minimizing the need for extensive fluid storage space. This not only saves on storage costs but also reduces the environmental impact associated with fluid production and disposal.
• Cleaner Workspace: Say goodbye to greasy floors and slippery surfaces. MQL’s minimal lubricant translates to a drier, cleaner work environment, improving operator comfort and safety.
• Cost Champion: Reduced lubricant consumption means lower procurement and disposal costs. Factor in energy savings from smaller pumps and a boost in tool life, and MQL becomes a true cost-cutter.
• Performance Powerhouse: Despite using less, MQL delivers more. Improved chip breaking, longer tool life, and enhanced surface finishes are all part of the package, leading to better product quality and higher production rates.
• Less Downtime: MQL not only contributes to environmental sustainability but also leads to operational efficiency. One significant advantage is the reduction in downtime. With MQL, there is less need for frequent coolant changes and system maintenance, allowing for continuous operation without lengthy interruptions.
• “Dry” Chips That Is Worth More When Recycled: MQL promotes the production of ‘dry’ chips, which hold inherent value when recycled. The minimal volume of lubricant applied with the MQL technique means that the chips don’t require cleaning or drying, in contrast to using flood coolant. This translates to no clearing costs, no need for drying ovens, and a reduction in associated energy wastage. As a result, the chips produced through MQL are worth more when recycled, contributing to both economic and environmental sustainability.
• Healthier Workforce: Traditional coolants often contain harmful chemicals that can pose health risks to operators. MQL’s biodegradable lubricants and reduced mist exposure create a safer, healthier work environment.

What are the disadvantages of using the Flood Coolant Method?

• The primary issue in metalworking is addressing friction rather than heat. While the flood coolant method effectively cools the tooling to alleviate heat generation, it merely tackles the symptoms. Consequently, this approach can result in microscopic cracks, weakening the tool and potentially leading to tool failure.
• Moreover, the flood coolant method necessitates a substantial amount of lubricant, demanding significant storage space. As it is continually reused, the lubricant requires pumping and filtration for circulation, significantly escalating electricity costs.
• To counteract bacterial growth in the coolant, specialized testing equipment and additives are essential.
• During the application of coolant, a portion tends to accumulate in pipes or other hollow sections being cut, splashing onto floors and equipment. This often poses challenges for machinery.
• Furthermore, the coolant can irritate the skin of machinists, potentially causing dermatitis.
• Replacing the coolant with a fresh supply results in a considerable volume of costly waste, posing environmental disposal challenges due to its significant environmental impact.

MQL in Action:

MQL’s versatility shines across various machining operations. From milling and turning to drilling and tapping, this technique adapts to a wide range of tasks. Whether you’re crafting intricate medical implants or churning out automotive parts, MQL can optimize your process and elevate your results.

The Future of Manufacturing:

As the push for sustainability and efficiency intensifies, MQL is poised to become the new standard. Its combination of environmental consciousness, cost savings, and performance improvements makes it a compelling choice for forward-thinking manufacturers. So, the next time you picture a bustling machine shop, ditch the image of oily puddles and overflowing coolant tanks. Instead, envision a cleaner, more efficient space where every drop counts, and MQL’s precise mist is silently revolutionizing the world of metalworking.

Ready to make the switch?

MQL technology has come a long way, with user-friendly systems and readily available expertise to guide you through the implementation process. If you’re looking to boost your bottom line, enhance your environmental credentials, and optimize your machining process, MQL might just be the missing piece in your manufacturing puzzle.

Remember, a small change can have a big impact. So, embrace the power of a single drop and let MQL lead your manufacturing journey into a cleaner, more efficient future.