Interesting challenge

We were given the opportunity to prove the performance of our innovative total-loss lubrication at the well-know machine tool manufacturer, TORNOS in Moutier. During initial discussions for the preparation regarding this challenge, we were asked whether we had any restrictions with regard to the materials. We didn’t! We said that anything is possible, from aluminium to titanium. Somewhat astonished, our contact partner then wanted to know whether there were any preferences with regard to the workpiece. We said that we simply wanted as difficult an application task as possible to be able to clearly demonstrate the system performance. A demanding workpiece was then soon found, and we were able to exchange information about the details of the application and the specifications regarding the tools for half a day on site. Application: Material: 1.4104 Drill hole: Ø 1.45 with depth 13 mm Thread: M1.6 with depth 11 mm Workpiece diameter: Ø 2.35 / Ø 3.00 mm Total workpiece length: 44.5 mm

High-performance system

To cope with the task, an ECOLUBE 3-nozzle system was chosen. We placed an external lubricating nozzle each on the main spindle and the counter spindle. The third nozzle was intended for the deep-hole drill with internal cooling. Once TORNOS had finished setting up its workpiece and had already produced the first workpieces with a surge of oil as a reference, we were allowed to fit the machine with our system.

Doesn’t work? No such thing!

We had barely started assembling the UNILUBE system when an older, no doubt very experienced mechanic came by looking interested. When he heard that we were in the process of setting up a minimal lubrication system, he said tersely that minimum quantity lubrication didn’t work on lathes. He said although it was suitable for milling applications, but too much heat was generated on a lathe and a minimal lubrication system had no chance there. With that he took his leave, but kept looking back at us over his shoulder as he went.

Challenge overcome

One sticking point was the deep-hole drilling. The drill supplied by MIKRON TOOL, thanks to specially shaped cooling channels, has a cooling channel cross-section about four times bigger than is the case with classic drilling tools with the same diameter. Hence an impressive 10 Nl/min of the UNILUBE air/oil mixture was able to be conveyed. This made the deep-hole drilling child’s play.

Old hand – speechless

In view of the finished, excellent quality workpiece, the turner went completely quiet and voiced no more doubts or criticism. We take this as a compliment and at the same time as proof that the tried-and-tested UNILUBE quasi-dry machining really is worlds apart from the classic minimal quantity lubrication.

Did you like this blog article? Subscribe to our newsletter and we will provide you with the latest specialist knowledge all round quasi-dry machining every month.