Partnering for machine shop performance

By OEM Update Editorial September 18, 2023 5:53 pm IST

In Trichy, India, a manufacturing firm grappled with operational setbacks due to coolant challenges. With Mobil’s expertise, a transformative solution involving MobilcutTM 220 brought efficiency, savings, and improved performance.

As India inches closer to its goal of becoming a USD 5 trillion economy, the manufacturing sector will play a more active role in driving economic growth for the country. Within the sector, the machine tools segment, in particular, will play a pivotal role in impacting overall industrial activity. Machine tools find application in a wide spectrum of tasks that enhance product consistency and ensure higher labour productivity. Consequently, maintaining optimal health and functionality of the machine tools segment is essential for seamless manufacturing operations.

As the segment focuses on equipment performance, there is a need to enhance the precision of production processes at a microscopic level. This involves the utilization of advanced lubrication solutions and services to optimize the well-being of machines. This is particularly significant due to the projected expansion of the machine tools market that is expected to reach USD 2.5 billion by 2028, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 9.4% during 2023-2028.

Recognizing the sector’s prospects, MobilTM is actively collaborating with enterprises that manage intricate machinery to help them monitor equipment performance and achieve higher levels of performance, productivity and profitability.

Partnerships for productivity
In the vibrant industrial hub of Trichy, India, a dedicated engineering equipment manufacturing firm had long been dependent on a market general water-soluble metalworking fluid to support its machining activities. Nevertheless, the company found itself entangled in a series of hurdles that were impeding both its operational efficiency and financial well-being. Among these challenges were the notorious ‘Monday odour’, excessive oil usage, elevated top-up rates, and a disappointingly abbreviated tool lifespan. Despite concerted efforts to seek remedies, these persistent issues cast a shadow over the company’s operations.

Like clockwork, each week saw workers returning to the shop floor only to be greeted by a strong and unpleasant Monday odour. This not only created an uncomfortable atmosphere but also raised doubts about the coolant’s efficacy. Additionally, the company struggled with high oil consumption and the need for frequent top-ups, resulting in significant operational expenditures. Moreover, the tools employed in the machining process had reduced lifespans, leading to escalated costs.

In a bid to overcome these challenges, the company sought assistance from Mobil’s Field Engineering Services (FES) team. After comprehensive investigations, the FES team recommended the adoption of MobilcutTM 220 as the lubricant, complemented by the utilization of the MobilTM Solcare kit for comprehensive servicing. This strategic switch brought about remarkable improvements in coolant longevity and helped the company achieve an optimal top-up ratio of 1:40, consequently, reducing oil consumption. The switch to Mobilcut 220 also led to diminished instances of eye and skin irritation, prolonged machine tool longevity, and ultimately resulted in a total cost savings of USD 8438.

Profitable Innovation
MobilcutTM represents Mobil’s range of high-performance metalworking fluids. Blended with cutting-edge base oils, additives, and emulsifiers, the Mobilcut Series of cutting oils deliver reliable results across a diverse spectrum of metal removal processes. These products are engineered to function effectively in various water qualities. One noteworthy product of this collection is the Mobilcut 220, a versatile and enduring semi-synthetic metalworking fluid concentrate. It is well-suited for moderate machining and grinding operations on metals. Mobilcut 220 incorporates a unique formulation comprising high-performance extreme pressure additives, corrosion inhibitors, and biocides, ensuring prolonged stability and performance during application.

To complement product use, the company also adopted the Mobil Solcare Service app that empowers customers to reach their ambitions with data-driven insights and tailor-made recommendations. The app helps operators access critical data easily, aiding the shift from reactive to proactive maintenance, and achieving ease of operations with constant task updates. The app ensures more effective service management, more efficient data analysis, greater focus on productivity and increased customer satisfaction.

As Mobil remains dedicated to enhancing customer experience through cutting-edge lubrication solutions, fostering industry partnerships remains an area of key interest. By offering timely guidance, recommendations, and services, Mobil is advancing customer productivity, aiding them in achieving greater efficiency and realizing their business objectives with a leaner approach.

For more information, visit www.mobil.in/business
(Exxon Mobil Corporation has numerous affiliates, many with names that include ExxonMobil, Exxon, Esso, and Mobil. For convenience and simplicity, those terms, and references to “corporation,” “company,” “ExxonMobil,” “EM,” and other similar terms are used for convenience and may refer to one or more specific affiliates or affiliate groups.)