Case Studies

Aerospace Components Supplier Resolves Contamination Using Master Fluid Solutions

As a leading supplier of aerospace components, contamination is a serious problem. One UK-based supplier that performs milling, turning, drilling, and tapping operations at its facility facing such an issue. This supplier machines aerospace-grade aluminum, with 19 machines in total consisting of mills, machining centers, and lathes. The aerospace industry requires a precision operation, while also minimizing downtime for the machines.

THE CHALLENGE

The aerospace components supplier encountered a problem controlling bacterial contamination in its metalworking fluid. This meant it had to conduct regular machine cleans of approximately two to three machines per month. It took half a day to clean and refill the machines and the lost machine time cost $76 per hour.

The existing metalworking fluid also periodically caused machining issues. The machines would tap oversize holes, which meant those component parts would have to be completely scrapped. Each scrapped component resulted in a $2,330 loss.

THE SOLUTION

Weary of losing more money and productivity, the aerospace components supplier agreed to a six-week trial of TRIM^® E715, run at 6% to 10% concentration. TRIM E715 is a universal soluble oil that requires minimal maintenance and is suitable for machining aluminum, steel and nickel alloys, as well as cast iron and yellow metals.

THE RESULTS

The trial of TRIM E715 resolved the bacterial contamination issue completely, eliminating the need for costly cleanouts, a saving of nearly $9,325 per year. Resolving bacterial contamination also removed the bad odors that operators frequently complained about. All machines have since been switched over to TRIM E715.

TRIM E715 also fixed the issue with oversized holes that resulted in scrapped parts. The aerospace components supplier has had no reports of issues since the conversion.

And, as a bonus, several operators who suffered from dermatitis with the former metalworking fluid have had their skin clear up since the switch to TRIM E715.

"During the six-week test run, we resolved the bacterial contamination issue, leading to no need for costly cleanouts since April 2019."

-Machine Shop Manager

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