Cleaner cutting  

Makino’s Process R&D Group based in Mason, Ohio in the US has successfully run Hangsterfer’s S-787 veg-ester semi-synthetic metalworking fluid for six years in a wide variety of applications and technologies.

The fluid has met, and continues to meet the company’s criteria for machining performance, health/safety/environmental compliance, cleanliness, foam control, and protection for critical machine components. Sustainable and repeatable performance has been achieved on titanium and other aerospace materials, as well as traditional metallurgy throughout this time period.

Hangsterfer’s Laboratories, Inc. researches, develops, and manufactures the ‘Next Generation’ of metalworking fluids and lubricants in an ISO 9001 approved facility in Mantua, New Jersey, USA. The business prides itself in its bio-based renewable resource technologies and the company’s concern for environmental conservation initiatives has always been at the forefront of its operations, as well as promoting environmental awareness to the business community.

In a culture of continuous improvement in environmental responsibility, all employees at Hangsterfer’s play key roles in environmental stewardship. Jaclyn Connor, regulatory affairs specialist at Hangsterfer’s, makes sure of it: “We do a lot of toxicity testing on our products to make sure they are safe for workers and the environment. This costs money of course, but we see it as a benefit.”

The development of S-787 was no different. This bio-based coolant has been a success for Hangsterfer’s customers, meeting and exceeding environmental goals, and resulting in significant savings on bulk coolant purchases.

Hangsterfer’s S-787 is a chlorine-free vegetable-based semi-synthetic fluid, but, according to the manufacturer, what really sets it apart from competitor coolants is that it is free of boron, chlorine, formaldehyde, and secondary amines. These characteristics allow for excellent results in high-pressure applications with exotic aerospace and medical alloys, like titanium. The natural translucent formula provides good workpiece visibility (no foaming), and reduces coolant consumption significantly.

Hangsterfer’s customers report up to 50% less usage with S-787 compared to other coolants, due to less drag out. S-787 results in an excellent finish and improved tool life as well, which according to customer reports, has not been seen in other coolants.

Because it is non-hazardous and non-toxic, the fluid has a less pungent odour and leaves machine walls cleaner than other coolants. It’s also easier on the skin, as several operators testified: “Over the last six months we have changed most of our saws to Hangsterfer’s S-787 with immediate improvements such as cleaner work areas, longer blade life and better cuts. It’s less greasy and messy than the previous coolant which saves us time cleaning parts after cutting as well as getting the coolant back out of the saw fines for reuse,” says James Hostetler of TMS Titanium.

Tim Moore of Special Mine Services stated a reduction in coolant consumption close to 30%: “We no longer have a pungent coolant odour; our employees are happy with the switch and experience no skin irritation. We believe our work environment is healthier and cleaner because of S-787.”

Brian Zirkleback of A-Z Welding and Machine, praised the renewable technology: “The health benefits alone were the reason for our decision to try something new. Since we have made the transition, the machines are cleaner, parts come out spotless with no residue, and our usage has reduced.”

Livekey Tool and Machine has been using S-787 coolant for two years, with excellent results: “It has stayed clean in the sump with little to no odour,” a representative from the company asserts. “It has also kept the inside of the CNC machines cleaner. Compared to other products, S-787 is superior in cutter lifespan, and rust prevention on machine parts.”

Although there is not yet conclusive data on reduced workers’ compensation claims, Hangsterfer’s customers are most certainly enjoying a cleaner and safer work environment, with improved employee morale. And while the savings on reduced coolant usage is significant, there is also cost savings in machine cleaning and longevity.

In the UK, Hangsterfer’s products are available through Helensburgh, Scotland-based MacInnes Tooling.

MacInnes Tooling www.macinnes.co.uk

Hangsterfer’s www.hangsterfers.com