Part 3 of our Aerospace series of case studies showcases the experiences of a US military and aerospace machining supplier.

After experiencing issues during the machining process with a competitor’s product, our client asked us to recommend an alternative. We assessed the situation and advised our client to switch to our Performance Bio NC Ultra Lite EP. The outcome was extremely positive, with improved safety and operating conditions and increased productivity.

Thanks to the Castrol product’s high oxidation stability and low misting & smoking characteristics, oil usage was cut by 20%, saving the client $12,500 per year.

Read the case study summary to see how moving to Castrol Performance Bio NC Ultra Lite EP achieved these figures.

 

Sector          | Industrial

Sub-sector     | Aerospace & Military

Application  | High-speed CNC

Product       | Castrol Performance Bio NC Ultra Lite EP

Background

After experiencing issues during the machining process with a competitor product,

This supplier requested recommendations for an alternative. After an initial assessment of the situation the customer was advised to switch to Castrol Performance Bio NC Ultra Lite EP. The outcome was extremely positive, with improved safety and operating conditions and increased productivity.

Challenge

The client is a US military and aerospace machining supplier. Its production team was experiencing issues when using a high-speed Swiss CNC machine to manufacture small stainless steel, copper, titanium and Inconel fasteners. During the process, parts and machines developed an oily residue and some yellow metals were becoming stained. Operators were also complaining about excess mist and smoke and there had been several fires reported at the plant.

There was also a large volume of oil make-up and the high amount of oil carry-off on the parts meant they had to be vigorously washed with solvents. All this was costing the plant time, money and labour.

Solution

Castrol acted swiftly to resolve the situation. Swiss machining is a complex manufacturing process that requires a high-performance fluid capable of accommodating a variety

of metals. After a comprehensive review, Castrol® Performance Bio NC Ultra Lite EP was recommended – a chlorine-free, multi-metal compatible, neat cutting oil. To demonstrate the oil’s effectiveness,  a rigorous testing process on two different machines was carried out.

Outcome

The results were impressive. Castrol® Performance Bio NC Ultra Lite EP performed exceptionally well in both machines. Mist and smoke were significantly reduced and tool life

was as good or better than it had been with the conventional cutting oil. The lower viscosity of our oil meant improved cooling at the point-of-cut and lower oil carry-out, which in turn sped up the parts-washing process.

Since making the switch to Castrol® Performance Bio NC Ultra Lite EP, the client has increased productivity, improved operating conditions, and reduced the risk of fire.

Advice

To discuss your industrial lubricant needs or to see what we can do for you. Contact Kernow Oils us on 01736 757 002, email at info@kernow-oils.co.uk or visit our website at https://www.kernow-oils.co.uk/products-category/industrial-lubricants/