Case Studies

Milling and turning large aluminum semiconductor chamber bases, a precision manufacturer with 60 machines was using an excessive amount of coolant. The fluid they were using was not preventing bacterial growth in the sump, the coolant quickly turning rancid and needing frequent fluid changes and clean outs meaning costly machine downtime. The dirty sumps were also creating unwanted odor, making the working environment in the plant unfavorable. In a bid to tackle the situation, the manufacturer was frequently adding new coolant, going through over 40 drums per month – an excessive volume making coolant costs extremely high. Unsurprisingly, the manufacturer was desperate to find a solution that would keep machines odor free and running clean while reducing costs.

The semiconductor equipment manufacturer was recommended TRIM MicroSol 585XT from Master Fluid Solutions^®, a precision high-performance microemulsion approved by Applied Materials^® and Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory^® for the semiconductor industry. MicroSol 585XT dramatically extends useful life without the need for tank-side biocides or fungicides making it the perfect choice for the plant’s odor issues and short sump life.

It delivers excellent cooling and mechanical lubricity, making it ideal for mixed-metal environments. Especially effective with titanium and aluminum alloys, it offers low foam performance for high-pressure, high-volume systems and superior corrosion protection on both ferrous and nonferrous metals. Free from nitrites, triazines, phenols, and chlorinated or sulfurized additives, it keeps machines clean with a soft, easy-to-remove fluid film and supports standard recycling and disposal methods.

After a three-month trial of TRIM MicroSol 585XT, the manufacturer was blown away by the incredible results. Machines were running significantly cleaner and the odor was eliminated, making the shop a much happier working environment for employees. Running at nearly half the makeup rate of the competitive product while offering extended life in the sump, switching to MicroSol 585XT resulted in the semiconductor manufacturer reducing coolant consumption by 50% in year one. With costs cut and the working environment greatly improved, the manufacturer decided to convert the entire facility to TRIM MicroSol 585XT.