SECTOR FOCUS: METALWORKING FLUIDS
Reinventing the Metalworking Fluid Space
Focus on Safety and Environmentally Responsible Fluids Ann Leuth, CEO, PolySi Technologies, Inc.
The metalworking fluid industry is working to reinvent itself in the wake of increased awareness of the dangers of biocides that have been commonly used in metalworking fluids across a wide variety of industries. Government entities are introducing more stringent regulations for metalworking fluid labelling and rolling out other legislative hurdles to protect machine operators. An enhanced spotlight on the environmental impact from metalworking fluid use and disposal is also underway. Biocides are used to prevent bacterial growth in metalworking fluids which can cause the metalworking fluid to be contaminated and decrease its lifespan, shelf life, and potency. The health risks of daily operator exposure to these biocides are increasingly scrutinised. The challenge to all players in the metalworking fluid industry is to reduce the use of biocides in its fluids while maintaining the integrity, longevity, and effectiveness of metalworking fluids. These goals must be achieved cost effectively.
Metalworking fluid manufacturers that are innovative in their approach to reducing biocides and increasing fluid safety, while preserving fluid performance, will win in this space moving forward. The ability to produce metalworking fluids that are dicyclohexylamine (DCHA) free, with options to formulate without utilising boron compounds or chlorinated paraffins, will differentiate players from the rest of the pack. One such example is utilising amine salts of diacids for rust prevention instead of amine borate esters.
16 LUBE MAGAZINE NO.146 AUGUST 2018
In addition to safety concerns, the environmental impact of metalworking fluids has become a key component in purchasing decisions. Leading formulators are developing fluids that are environmentally responsible and don’t leave insoluble residues behind. One approach is to incorporate non-mineral oil lube components with vegetable oils and synthetic esters to create enhanced biodegradability and recycling capability.
Due to improvements in these technologies, the performance longevity of vegetable based fluids has increased and the cost curve is lowering. Using synthetic esters, vegetable oils, and their derivatives in combination creates a fluid that is naturally attracted to metal surfaces; an important benefit for heavy metalworking applications. With the correct combination of additives, and the ability to formulate environmentally responsible fluids cost effectively, these newer generation fluids are gaining in significance.
Solution Selling, Batch of ‘One’ While safety and environmental sustainability have risen as key factors in the decision-making process for metalworking fluid buyers, so has the need to work with a formulator that can utilise synergistic blends of additives designed for their specific application. Rethinking the marketplace to understand the nuances of each application not only differentiates formulators, but also increases operator acceptance. The ability
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