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world's largest metalworking fluid industry directory

METALWORKING FLUID DEATH MATCH.  
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The Consumers' Fight Club

July 2009

July 1

STLE 65th Annual Meeting & Exhibition   Bally's Las Vegas Hotel & Casino, Las Vegas, Nevada, May 16-20, 2010.   [MFM]

Current Issue of STLE Update Available   Get the latest news and industry developments and information on processes and applications and research and development.   Click here for more information.   [MFM]
June 2009

June 28

KoolRite 2290 soluble oil forgoes bacteriacides   JTM Products, Inc. introduces KoolRite 2290 Long Life Coolant, a new soluble oil metalworking coolant that does not contain bacteriacides, phenols, nitrites, chlorine, DCHA or phosphorus, yet promises to provide at least two times the sump life of conventional soluble oils.   [MFM]

June 23

TLT’s spotlight on MWF biocides   The August 2009 issue of TLT will feature an article titled “Microbial Problems in Metalworking Fluids” and an interview with its author, Dr. Fred Passman, a world-renown expert in this field and a favorite scientist of this magazine.  The article will be posted here courtesy of STLE.  Contact STLE to participate in the August issue.   [MFM]

June 20

June 18

HIRSCHMANN ENGINEERING HAS A NEW REGIONAL SALES MANAGER  - Darren Carroll is now responsible for selling and servicing the HIRSCHMANN product line in northern Ohio, Michigan and Canada.  HIRSCHMANN produces SintoGrind TTS, a 100% pure synthetic fluid made from base fluids called PAO’s (Poly-Alpha Olefins).  PAO’s are products that are produced by combining a mixture of gases, applying heat and pressure and using a catalyst to form a very pure liquid.  It does not contain any unwanted molecular chains like aromatics and PAH (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons) usually found in refined mineral-based oils, which come from crude oil.  [MFM]

June 16

http://www.astm.org/POLICY/logo_policy.html New metalworking fluid TESTING Standards from ASTM  Two new standards are provided  for use by the metalworking fluid manager in identifying the termination point in the life of a metalworking fluid.  Metrics for making these decisions have been somewhat slow in coming over the years, and these standards address the principal safety issue facing MWF managers- biological contamination.
Standard Test Method for Determination of Endotoxin Concentrations in Water-Miscible Metalworking Fluids   ASTM E2657 - 09 covers quantitative methods for the sampling and determination of bacterial endotoxin concentrations in water miscible metalworking fluids (MWF).  The determination of endotoxin concentrations in metalworking fluids can be used in decision-making for fluid management practices (fluid draining, cleaning, recharging or biocide dosages).   [MFM]
File:ATP-xtal-3D-sticks.png
ATP rendering from Wikipedia
Standard Test Method for Measurement of Adenosine Triphosphate in Water-Miscible Metalworking Fluids   ASTM E2694 - 09 provides a protocol for capturing, extracting and quantifying the adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content associated with microorganisms found in water-miscible metalworking fluids (MWF).  - ATP is a constituent of all living cells, including bacteria and fungi.  It is essential to metabolism.   Consequently, the presence of ATP is an indicator of total microbial contamination in metalworking fluids.  The ATP test provides rapid test results that reflect the total bioburden in the sample. [MFM]

June 12

Lubrizol Introduces Becrosan CP 2125 Liquid Corrosion Inhibitor   The Lubrizol Corporation (NYSE:LZ) introduces Becrosan CP 2125 liquid corrosion inhibitor, the newest addition to its comprehensive family of metalworking additives.  Boron and secondary amine free, Becrosan CP 2125 provides excellent performance during operation, while offering European customers a choice in meeting new product safety standards.  The introduction of Becrosan makes it official - the marketing department has run out of names for new products. [MFM]

June 11

PBGC asks to terminate Milacron pension plan   Truly sad.  The Pension Benefit Guarantee Corp. has asked a federal judge to terminate Milacron Inc.’s retirement plan that pays benefits to about 8,400 mostly former employees of the bankrupt manufacturer and their beneficiaries.   Interesting to note the logo for PBGC includes the motto "Protecting America's Pensions"  Protecting them from what?  From being paid out?  Maybe they should have a second division called PBEC - The Pension Benefit Elimination Corp. [MFM]

June 10

http://www.goodlogo.com/extended.info/2501

SKF assimilates VOGEL brand, talks minimal quantity lubrication   As of July 1, all VOGEL lubrication systems, products and services will be sold under the SKF brand.  SKF acquired lubrication systems manufacturer Willy Vogel in 2004.  This acquisition has allowed SKF to strengthen its lubrication capabilities, and allowed it to highlight its LubriLean lubrication systems.   [MFM]

June 8

Houghton Hocut 795-B  Coolant the Right Prescription for a Medical Manufacturer’s Sump Woes   Coolant deterioration was leaving a sour taste in the mouths of the managers of a medical manufacturer, as well as sour coolant in the storage tanks.   The company went looking for a different fluid prescription.  (From Aug. 2008  MAN)  [MFM]

Needed: new cutting fluid with low odor   Check out this archived thread from "Practical Machinist" for some interesting ideas to get the smell out of your sumps.   [MFM]

June 3

Coolant Rejuvenator is designed for CNC/small-run machines   Rustlick has introduced the Mini SC Coolant Rejuvenator, a compact, efficient, and affordable tramp oil separator developed for CNC and small-run machines.   [MFM]

June 2

COMPLETE LINE OF DRUM PUMPS OFFERED BY SERFILCO   SERFILCO offers drum pumps of CPVC, polypropylene, stainless steel or aluminum, as well as Kynar® for difficult-to-pump solutions such as ferric chloride and other etchants.   [MFM]

June 1

Industrial Leaders Launches Its Metalworking Fluids and Lubricants Marketplace   Buy American, a blog-based website created by Industrial Leaders to promote U.S. manufacturers overseas announced today the release of its new Industrial and Synthetic Lubricants directory and buyers' guide.   [MFM]
May 2009

May 27

OSHA Proposes GHS Rule   The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has submitted a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRM) to the Office of Management and Budget for review that would modify the Agency’s Hazard Communication Standard (HCS) to include provisions from the Globally Harmonized System of Classification and Labeling of Chemicals (GHS).   [MFM]

ASTM To Revise Standard Practice   ASTM has an open work item to revise E1972-04, the Standard Practice for Minimizing Effects of Aerosols in the Wet Metal Removal Environment.   [MFM]

May 25

An advance in solving the mysterious machine-workers' disease   Scientists in Ohio are reporting a long-awaited advance toward making the workplace safer for more than one million machinists in the United States who may be exposed to disease-causing bacteria in contaminated metalworking fluids.   [MFM]

May 22

Rustlick Introduces Compact Tramp Oil Separator   Rustlick has introduced the Mini SC Coolant Rejuvenator, a compact, efficient and affordable tramp oil separator.  Developed for CNC and small-run machines, the Mini SC features specially engineered packing media, pneumatic diaphragm pump and a compact 13-gallon tank that is ideal for tucking next to a sump.   [MFM]

May 15

STLE and Chemidex Announce Strategic Partnership   STLE has announced a new partnership with Chemidex, LLC – an online, industry-specific search engine designed to aid the research needs of industry professionals working in a variety of chemical and life science industries.  Their newest industry search engine is The Lubricant & Metalworking Fluids Cybrary – enabling lubricant and metalworking fluid formulators to quickly search technical data sheets and supporting technical information to find the raw materials they need to create the best products in the industry.   [MFM]

May 12

death match UPDATE   Metalworking Fluid Magazine has selected and ordered products for the Inaugural Death Match.  These are well known products and we look forward to providing our readers with a tremendous amount of information and a little entertainment as well.

May 7

THE COURSES ARE JUST THE BEGINNING   Visit the CRC Press booth at the STLE Annual Meeting & Exhibition for a wide selection of book offerings ranging from lubricants, metalworking fluids, coatings and more.   [MFM]

May 5

Stable Semi-Synthetic Metal Cutting Fluids Resist Bacteria and Foaming   Henkel Corporation has introduced two new water-soluble Multan® metal removal lubricants formulated to generate minimal foam and be used continuously for years with minimal biological degradation.   [MFM]

May 1

Trim C272 excludes boron and formaldehyde biocides   Master Chemical has introduced Trim C272: a variant of the Trim C270 synthetic cutting and grinding fluid but without the inclusion of boron and formaldehyde donor biocides.   [MFM]
April 2009

April 30

General Motors Leaves a Toxic Time Bomb for America   This article reports on worker health in automotive industry risks.  The toxicity of the assets of the companies is not limited to financial health.  The poisonous legacy of manufacturers will be carried by its workers in their bodies for the rest of their lives.   [MFM]


The Most Common Cutting Fluid Problems   This article looks at five common problems including foam, corrosion and rust.   [MFM]

April 29

Milacron inks deal to sell assets   Milacron Inc. has reached agreement with two investment funds to sell substantially all of its assets for about $135 million.  The company is seeking bankruptcy court approval of the deal, subject to receipt of a competing offer or offers for at least $147 million, according to documents filed with U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Cincinnati.   [MFM]

April 28

Revision of Standard Test Method   ASTM has issued WK23850 to revise the standard test method for determining the carcinogenic potential of virgin base oils in metalworking fluids.   [MFM]

April 27

Boeing Approves TRIM® MicroSol® 585 and TRIM® E917 for Aerospace Manufacturing   MicroSol 585, a nonchlorinated, semisynthetic metalworking fluid, and E917, a low-foam, high-lubricity emulsion, have received Boeing process spec number BAC5008 approval for areas 5 and 6, which includes machining titanium alloys.   [MFM]

April 23

Management Forum Presentations Available Online   The speaker presentations from last week’s ILMA Management Forum, along with presentations from past meetings, are now available to download.   [MFM]

Minimum Quantity Lubrication Improves Part Quality, Piece Cost at Ford Plant   Recently installed MQL (minimum quantity lubrication) machining systems from MAG Powertrain are paying both cost and environmental dividends.  The systems netted green savings of seven figures in initial cost, and the machines are producing parts at lower variable cost.   [MFM]

April 22

EPA Administrator Reinstates Full TRI Reporting Requirements   EPA Administrator Lisa P. Jackson signed a final rule to reinstate stricter reporting requirements for industrial and federal facilities that release toxic substances that threaten human health and the environment.   [MFM]

STLE ’09 features extensive Synthetic Lubricants technical program   STLE’s 64th Annual Meeting & Exhibition, May 17-21, 2009, at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., will feature six technical papers on Synthetic Lubricants, as well two one-day Education Courses.   [MFM]

April 21

New Test Method for Quantification of Mycobacterium immunogenum

File:Molecular Beacons.jpg
Picture from Wikipedia

ASTM has issued work item ASTM WK 23816, a Mini Round-Robbin Pilot Testing of qPCR methods for the detection and enumeration of Mycobacterium immunogenum by quantitative polymerase chain reaction in Metalworking Fluids.   [MFM]

Wikipedia: ...qPCR  is used to amplify and simultaneously quantify a targeted DNA molecule. It enables both detection and quantification of a specific sequence in a DNA sample.  The amplified DNA is quantified as it accumulates in the reaction in real time after each amplification cycle.

April 20

Process Manufacturing Software Provider Introduces Environmental Reporting Course   Beginning in June, Deacom, Inc. will offer its first in-depth training course on environmental reporting for users of the DEACOM Integrated Accounting and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Software System.  Part of the DEACOM® University continuing education program, DEACOM® Environmental Reporting will give manufacturers hands-on instruction in the setup and generation of SARA Reports, Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDSs), Certificates of Analysis (COA), and other environmental regulatory documents.   [MFM]

April 17

GM bust will hit metalworkers severely   A confidential survey by four leading metalworking associations shows 44 percent reporting they would be "severely" impacted by a General Motors Corp. bankruptcy filing.  Where, oh where is that bailout money?   [MFM]

April 14

Go DIGITAL with TLT Magazine   Beginning with the June 2009 issue, TLT Magazine is going digital.  That means your advertising messages not only can reach STLE's 7,000+ print circulation, but will now be accessible on the world wide WEB!  To celebrate, TLT is offering a Digital Summer Special: Advertise in June and get your July or August placement FREE! (Half page or larger)  For pricing information and more details, contact Tracy Nicholas VanEe at 630-922-3459.   [MFM]

IJTC-2009 Memphis: Abstract Wait List Open For Submissions until April 30   The ASME/STLE International Joint Tribology Conference will be held in Memphis, Tennessee, on October 19-21, 2009.  Abstracts will be accepted until April 30, 2009.   [MFM]

April 13

Save Now on the 2009 SME Annual Conference   Save 50% on registration when you register for the 2009 SME Annual Conference, to be held June 7 through June 9 in Philadelphia, PA, by April 15.   [MFM]

Register to save on 2009 STLE Annual Meeting   Friday, April 17, is the Early Bird deadline for registering for the 2009 STLE Annual Meeting, where members of the lubricants industry will convene for a week of technical education, professional development and networking.  The registration fee increases $75 after that date.   [MFM]

April 8

Congress Reverses TRI Burden Reduction Role   As part of the 2009 Omnibus Appropriations Act, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has returned Toxic Release Inventory (TRI) reporting requirements back to the rules in effect prior to Dec. 22, 2006. [MFM]

EPA Creates More SPCC Confusion   The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced last week that the effective date for the Dec. 5, 2008 Spill Prevention, Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) amendments has been extended from April 4, 2009 to Jan. 14, 2010.nbsp; EPA, however, did not announce an extension of the current July 1, 2009 SPCC compliance deadline.   [MFM]
Regulatory Reporting

April 2

Dürr Ecoclean shows its expanded portfolio at SVC TechCon   Dürr Ecoclean GmbH, Filderstadt, Germany, is expanding its range of industrial parts cleaning services in the field of precision cleaning.   [MFM]

Lubricant Manufacturer Selects Chemical Software from Deacom   Deacom, Inc. today announced lubricant and specialty chemical manufacturer D-A Lubricant Company, Inc. has licensed the DEACOM Integrated Accounting and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Software System.  The DEACOM ERP System will integrate all of D-A Lubricant's business processes, including purchasing, sales, formulation, inventory control and lot tracking, production, and accounting, in a single chemical software system.   [MFM]

April 1

obama promises bail-out funds for the metalworking fluid industry  The stock market is expected to be up sharply this morning on the news that President Obama has promised an aggressive $35 billion dollar bail-out of the metalworking fluid industry.  On a slightly negative note, the president plans to transfer $33.9 billion of the bail-out to the French government.  "I don't want French workers to be forced to take hostages every time an insensitive US company tries to remain in business with a reduction in the work force.  American taxpayers have a responsibility to all struggling citizens of the world.  I'd rather print up some more money right now and keep this critical industry flowing" he punned.  The bail-out transfer is consistent with the administration's revised international terrorism response policy known as Cave & Pay.  "By caving into demands early and paying the ransom, we become a nation that responds to threats with respect for others, instead of with violence, and the cash will help them move on to a more productive life."  The president is scheduled to give a "good speech" later today that will explain the new bail-out transfer plan "in clear terms that even the simplest American should understand."  Industry experts received the news with restrained optimism, with one analyst stating "We've heard a lot of good speeches lately."   [MFM]
March 2009

March 31

mwf magazine WELCOMES  POLARTECH  Polartech Group is a global company specializing in the supply of fully formulated metalworking fluids, metalworking fluid packages, additives for metalworking fluids, related products and formulatory expertise to lubricant and chemical, manufacturing and marketing, companies worldwide.  With full Manufacturing/R&D/Sales/Technical Support sites located in the USA, UK, India & China, Polartech offers a unique opportunity for its customers to partner with the only global player in the metalworking additives market with this complete product offer.  These Products are sold on a strict B2B basis only - Polartech never sells its metalworking fluids direct to end-users.   [MFM]

March 30

Rogers Metalworking Plant Lays Off Workers   A Kennemetal representative said there was an unspecified number of layoffs last week at its Rogers plant.  The company cited decreasing demand for the job cuts.   [MFM]

Everett firm fined for hazardous waste violations   The Washington State Department of Ecology has fined an Everett metalworking firm $24,000 for failing to manage its hazardous waste.   [MFM]

U. S. EPA takes action against metal finishing company for improperly managed hazardous waste   The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency fined Alloy Processing, a metal finishing company located in Compton, Calif., $150,000 for failing to comply with federal hazardous waste management regulations.   [MFM]

March 30

A closer look at the TLT articles   Although we posted these articles from the March 2009 edition of Tribology & Lubrication Technology the other day, we thought we'd provide a more in-depth look at each one:

- Relationship between the presence of mycobacteria and non-mycobacteria in metalworking fluids discusses the results of a study of 99 metalworking fluid samples to determine whether the presence of gram-negative bacteria affected the presence of mycobacteria in metalworking fluid.   [MFM]

- Challenges in formulating metal-forming fluids explores the many different metal-forming applications and the difficulties formulators face in developing metal-forming fluids.   [MFM]

- Greater accuracy through digital refractometers explains some of the reasons you might want to switch to digital.   [MFM]

- 20 Minutes With... Dr. Maura Sheehan get to know Dr. Sheehan, whose work led to a landmark study on MWFs and find out where she thinks the industry should be headed.   [MFM]

- Selecting the ‘perfect’ metalworking fluid will help you select the best metalworking fluid for you.   [MFM]

- Your one-stop shop for MWF resources gives you a peek inside STLE and shows you what they can do for you.   [MFM]

March 27

T-Slot Clean covers protect against swarf ingress   NCMT is offering BIG Daishowa's T-Slot Clean covers, which prevent T-slots in machine tables from harbouring swarf.   [MFM]

March 25

Must Attend SME Event   BREAKING THROUGH: 2009 SME Annual Conference, Philadelphia, PA, June 7 - 9, 2009   [MFM]

March 24

HEAVY DUTY CHLORINE-FREE CUTTING OIL   Master Chemical Europe has developed a new semi-synthetic neat cutting oil.  Although specifically formulated for machining titanium it is also ideal for use on steel, stainless steel and yellow metals.   [MFM]

March 20

Coolant filters benefit production machining   VRS Precision Engineering has invested in ceiling ventilation systems and filtration units from Air Cleaning Systems (ACS) to reduce odors, fumes and other atmospheric particles.   [MFM]

March 18

Six New Articles  from the March 2009 edition of Tribology & Lubrication Technology have been added to our Technology page.  The articles cover everything from the selection of metalworking fluids to the advanced technology of digital refractomers to an interview with the past Chair of OSHA’s MWF Standards Advisory Committee.  Reprinted with permission from the March 2009 issue of TLT, the monthly magazine published by the STLE, (a not-for-profit international technical society headquartered in Park Ridge, Ill.)   [MFM]

March 17

STLE Members approve new Constitution and Bylaws   STLE members have voted to approve a new and more modern Constitution and Bylaws for the organization.  The revised document, which was developed over a two-year period and approved by the Board of Directors last October, will become effective at the STLE Annual Meeting in May of this year.   [MFM]

Free REACH Web Session for ILMA Members   The Redstone Group will present a web-based session to update ILMA members on the status of the REACH initiative.  The presentation will be on March 30 at 1 p.m. EDT, and is open to all ILMA members free of charge.   [MFM]

March 16

Chip and swarf compactor AFM has added the PuckMaster range of chip and swarf compactors, designed to transform metalworking waste into compact, moisture free briquettes or 'Pucks', to its product range.   [MFM]

March 12

Master Chemical Corporation announces new corrosion inhibitor TRIM® RPO 6BF Master Chemical Corporation introduces TRIM RPO 6BF, a new barium-free, low odor, solvent-based corrosion inhibitor that can be used on a variety of metals.   [MFM]

March 11

          

Milacron To Be Sold To Investors  Milacron Inc. has reached an agreement in principle with Avenue Capital Group and certain funds and/or accounts managed by DDJ Capital Management LLC.  This is the result of a voluntarily filing for Chapter 11 protection that enable Milacron to implement the restructuring and continue to operate its business in the normal course.  - As a metalworking fluid manager, the Cimcool product line was my favorite, and I got the very best service and support from these guys.  Hopefully not much changes in the Industrial Fluids Division [MFM]

March 10

Quaker reps PUSHING exxon mobil products  Talk about friendly competition!  As part of our day-today investigation of the industry, we went to the Quaker website and looked up their local representative and gave them a call.  (About 1:40 CST)  J.A.M. Distributing in Dallas, Texas was quick to try to sell me Exxon Mobil products instead of Quaker products.  I insisted I was looking for metalworking fluid products from Quaker.  At first I was told they didn't carry them, but was told again that they have Exxon Mobil products.  When I insisted again that I needed Quaker metalworking fluids, I was told they could get them but that it would take a really long time.  They offered me a phone number: 800 LUBE-OIL, which is the number for Exxon Mobil.  Hey Quaker - sales down in Texas?  You might want to have a discussion with that Dallas rep, or update that website.  Maybe the Quaker folks knew we were thinking about testing their products and wanted to avoid the Death Match.  Naaaa... [MFM]

Lyndex-Nikken offers ER coolant collets Lyndex-Nikken's self-sealed ER coolant collets are said to prevent coolant from reaching the collet face without the need for plugs, discs or other hardware.   [MFM]

March 9

POINT: Hot Lube Markets Will Weather Downturn  With preliminary 2008 data in hand, Apu Gosalia of Fuchs Petrolub ventured that global lubricant demand fell by 2 to 4 percent from 2007 to 2008, and 2009 will certainly be down again.  But longer term, he said there is still enormous growth potential for lubricants in Brazil, Russia, India, China and the “Next 11” emerging countries.   [MFM]

COUNTERPOINT: Is the Lube Market Really Recession Resistant?  The lubricant market has many segments and one should be careful broadly characterizing it as "recession resistant" or "capable of weathering a downturn" as the article above implies.  Certainly the lube market for transportation engine oil is relatively stable due to the high number of vehicles already on the road, all of which must be maintained.  However, half of the lubricant market is for products consumed in manufacturing processes, a sector of the global economy suffering significant loss of demand.    [MFM]

March 2

Dermal Absorption of Biocides in Metalworking Fluids  The Center for Chemical Toxicology Research and Pharmacokinetics at North Carolina State University has a graduate student project focused on the health and safety effects of metalworking fluids.  The program is under the direction of Dr. Ronald Baynes. We caught up with Dr. Baynes at the Metalworking Fluid Symposium and he gave us a brief description of the work, which is on-going.  Usual disclaimer applies - our amateur video sucks.   For more information on this project in particular, contact Mr. Baynes directly here > [MFM]
 

Universities and industry I have personally contracted with major Universities (most recently Texas A&M) to provide  my clients with access to technology the client didn't have.  The universities break the task into graduate student projects with oversight from the professors.   Significant discounts are realized over accessing the services of professional engineers.  As a student at the University of Southern California, I contacted industry members and worked the deal from the other side.  I can tell you based on my own experience, industry members and students who are not reaching out to explore these relationships are missing a great opportunity.  In today's environment, you must be creative in seeking every option available to advance the interests of your education and company.   For information on the intellectual property implications of the relationships, contact me and I will walk you through it [Editor] 

TLT 48-page MWF Special Section  STLE is offering free downloads of eight articles that address the basics and advanced concepts relating to metalworking fluids.  Some of these articles were previously available on METALWORKING FLUID MAGAZINE, courtesy of STLE, and can also be found on our TECHNOLOGY page.

TLT (Tribology & Lubrication Technology) is a special STLE publication.  It has proven to be an outstanding resource for the Metalworking Fluid Manager. 

 [MFM]

TLT 48-page MWF Special Section - Free download
February 2009

February 27

Oil-free metalworking fluids cut costs  Lemoine, the UK distributor of the DPI range of oil-free metalworking fluids, has announced the launch of the SKV range, which allows modern machine tools to operate at their optimum performance, without using oils, solvents, or petroleum-based products for cutting fluids.   [MFM]

February 25

ILMA Submits Chlorinated Paraffin Comments to Environment Canada  Canada is proposing to classify all chlorinated paraffins as toxics, and to virtually eliminate long-chain chlorinated paraffins — products used in many metalworking fluids and other lubricants.   [MFM]

Toxin-eating bioreactor finishes trials  A toxin-eating bioreactor designed to improve the disposal process of metalworking fluids (MWFs) has successfully completed trials at BAE Systems' Brough facility.   [MFM]

February 24

STLE 2009 Annual Meeting Education Program Synopisis  The 2009 STLE Annual Meeting & Exhibition features 10 course days of education with two entirely new courses and four significantly revised courses.   [MFM]

February 23

STLE Chicago Section 2009 Education Program  The Chicago Section of STLE is offering a two day lubrication education program on March 18 & 19, 2009 at Argonne National Labs in Argonne, IL (near Chicago) designed for individuals and professionals who would like to look deeper into the critical aspects of formulating metalworking fluids and additives.   [MFM]

February 20

Microcycle safely disposes toxic metal-work fluids  BAE Systems has successfully trialled Microbial Solutions' Microcycle Technology bio-reactor, which turns toxic metal-working fluids into grey water that is safe to dispose.   [MFM]

February 19

File under "Crappy News of the Day"...
- Metalworking companies continue to lay off workers  Things are about the same as they were a month ago - dismal.  At least that’s how the nation’s metalforming industry sees it, according to the most recent poll results from the Independence-based Precision Metalforming Association.   [MFM]
- Study: Europe To Lose 3.5 Million Jobs This Year  A new study by the European Union Commission released Tuesday said 3.5 million EU workers will lose their jobs in 2009.  Expected to be the worst-hit sectors are metalworking, automotive, finance and logistics.   [MFM]

February 18

A couple more seminars worth mentioning:
- ILMA 2009 Management Forum, April 16 - 18, Loews Ventana Canyon Resort, Tucson, AZ   [MFM]
- EASTEC 2009, May 19 - 21, W. Springfield, MA   [MFM]

Arch Chemicals Closes On $100 Million Term Loan Facility Arch Chemicals, Inc. announced the successful completion of a new unsecured $100 million term loan facility with Banc of America Securities LLC and Greenwich Capital Markets, Inc. as joint lead arrangers and joint book managers.   [MFM]

February 17

A slew of seminars are coming up:
- STLE ’09, May 17-21, Coronado Springs Resort, Lake Buena Vista, FL   [MFM]
- Precision Machining Technology Show, April 28 - 30, Greater Columbus Convention Center, Columbus, OH   [MFM]
- HOUSTEX 2009, February 24 - 26, George R Brown Convention Center, Houston, TX   [MFM]
- WESTEC 2009 Exposition, March 30 - April 02, Los Angeles Convention Center, Los Angeles CA   [MFM]

February 16

Metalworking demand will stay low through spring Most metalworking companies expect tough times to continue.  Business during the next three months will be flat-to-down for 91% of the firms surveyed by the Precision Metalforming Association this month.   [MFM]

What's in your coolant lubrication package? A discussion from the SME Metalworking Fluids Tech Group of the three types of lubrication that are important when machining.   [MFM]

February 11

SERFILCO OFFERS COMPLETELY AUTOMATIC DISPOSABLE FABRIC FILTRATION SYSTEM Serfilco, Ltd. offers a totally automatic unit – their Series ‘DF’ - for unattended operations, which automatically indexes media for continuous filtration, even with varying input or solids content.   [MFM]

February 9

Trim coolant improves machine cleanliness Master Chemical shows how its Trim C270 synthetic coolant concentrate has helped Sauer Danfoss eliminate mineral emulsion odors and improve machine cleanliness.   [MFM]

February 6

Certification Opportunities The Maintenance & Reliability Technology Summit (MARTS) is offering a Certified Lubrication Specialist (CLS) Review on April 14-16.  For those also seeking certification, the Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE) is offering Certified Lubrication Specialist (CLS), Oil Monitoring Analyst (OMA) and Certified Metalworking Fluids Specialist (CMFS) exam opportunities on April 17.   [MFM]

OSHA Resources:
- Chemical Hygiene Plans   [MFM]
- Hazard Recognition   [MFM]
- Clarification of Employer Duty To Provide Personal Protective Equipment and Train Each Employee   [MFM]

February 5

HOUSTEX 2009 George R Brown Convention Center, Houston, TX, February 24 to February 26, 2009.   [MFM]

Master Chemical (Shanghai) Co., Ltd. Receives Awards Master Chemical (Shanghai) Co., Ltd has been awarded the 2008 Shanghai General Motor (SGM) Best Tier II Supplier.   [MFM]

February 4

Metalworking Fluids Excluded from Proposed Mineral Oil TLV The American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH) has dropped metalworking fluids from its Notice of Intended Change (NIC) of the Threshold Limit Value (TLV) for mineral oil.   [MFM]

Save Money On Your Metalworking Fluid In the metalworking industry optimizing machine and operator productivity is now more important than ever before.  A simple way to make sure that you are minimizing costs while maximizing profits is with your cutting fluid but currently most companies lose between 5 and 20% of their productivity to mismanagement of their cutting fluid.   [MFM]

February 3

Tool Manufacturing Techniques Impact Coolant Trials While optimizing the metalworking fluid selection for a stamping process, it was discovered that the grinding or turning process used was leaving sub-surface stresses, creating premature die failure.   [MFM]
January 2009

January 30

The Future of Machining Arrives Early By implementing machine tools incorporating Minimum Quantity Lubrication (MQL), the Ford Motor Co.'s Van Dyke Transmission Plant in Sterling Heights, Michigan improves part quality and cuts piece-processing cost.   [MFM]

January 26

Treating Bacteria and Fungus in Metalworking Fluids Bacteria and fungus are two major causes of metalworking fluid failure; they impair the effectiveness of the cutting fluid and are harmful to operators.  Treatment and prevention is not difficult but it does require consistent maintenance.   [MFM]

Febuary TLT Cover Story - Biomimetics: The science of imitating nature Tribologists are learning from some of the natural world’s most advanced engineers, including the lotus plant, gecko, tree frog, shark, pangolin and a host of others.   [MFM]

January 22

Metalforming companies expect business conditions to improve slightly According to the December 2008 Precision Metalforming Association (PMA) Business Conditions Report, metalforming companies expect business conditions to improve slightly, yet remain difficult, during the next three months.  Conducted monthly, the report is an economic indicator for manufacturing, and samples 157 metalforming companies in the United States and Canada.   [MFM]

Industrial Chemical May Be Human Carcinogen The chemical 2-mercaptobenzothiazole (MBT) - used as a corrosion inhibitor in metalworking fluids, as well as in other applications - may be carcinogenic, according to an article published online Jan. 21 in Occupational and Environmental Medicine.   [MFM]

Airbus productivity takes off with Alfapure Z3 The Airbus plant at Broughton, Flintshire has eliminated coolant fouling and disposal problems and improved productivity since installing Alfapure Z3 coolant treatment systems from Alfa Laval.   [MFM]

January 21

OSHA Issues Revised Enforcement Manual The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has issued a revised Field Operation Manual, the guiding document for OSHA's Compliance Officers in conducting workplace inspections, enforcing OSHA’s regulations, and encouraging workplace safety and health.   [MFM]

January 20

High pressure metalworking coolant prevents foaming JTM Products has released Koolrite 2365, a high performance metalworking coolant that is formulated for high pressure applications and provides enhanced control over foaming.   [MFM]

January 18

Pollution Equipment News 2009 Buyers Guide  was delivered earlier this month.  We have often touted the advantages of combining management of Environmental, Health, and Safety responsibilities with those of Metalworking Fluid Management.  MWF management has so many material safety, handling, and waste disposal issues that decisions cannot be made related to the products without ongoing involvement of EHS.  If you're streamlining - start here.  Even if you operate MWF and EHS Departments as life-partners, without the formality of a marriage, the PEN Buyers Guide is a valuable resource with many products that can be used in the management of MWF's.  If you're sick of magazines, magazines everywhere, with not a scantly clad lady among them, then convert your PEN to a green magazine like METALWORKING FLUID MAGAZINE.  [MFM]

January 16

Be a part of TLT's special spotlight issue on MWFs The editorial staff of TLT magazine is preparing its annual Metalworking Fluids issue in March, which features a special editorial section examining all facets of these materials, from design to application.  Make sure your advertising message reaches this key power audience in March!  Deadline for artwork is Feb. 2, 2009.  Contact Tracy by phone at 630-922-3459 or by email at TNicholas@stle.org.   [MFM]

And in other STLE news...

New STLE Constitution and Bylaws Needs Your Vote On October 19, 2008, the STLE Board of Directors voted (unanimously) to accept and recommend approval by the membership of a new Constitution and Bylaws designed to modernize STLE governance.  Members are encouraged to review the material and vote in person, by fax, or bu mail, no later than March 13, 2009.   [MFM]

January 14

MRF Symposium Presentations now Available through ilma ILMA has now made all of the presentations and abstracts from the 2008 Symposium on the Assessment and Control of Metal Removal Fluids available in PDF format to ILMA Members on the ILMA website. [MFM]   Not an ILMA member?  You can still buy your own copy here: [MFM].  We remind you of this opportunity to get up-to-date with the technology of metalworking fluids.

January 13

Environmental Lubricants Manufacturing spins off metalworking business Environmental Lubricants Manufacturing Inc. spun off its metalworking fluids business to a group of minority shareholders, establishing a new company called Performance BioLubes LLC.  [MFM]

Dark Side of the Moon

Pink Floyd Presents:
How to Use a Refractometer
A refractometer is an investment that pays for itself almost instantly. Properly maintained cutting fluid concentration prevents wasting coolant, protects machines and tools, reduces disposal, and produces better parts. Here's a quick tutorial on how to use a refractometer (from itwfpg at wordpress.com.)  [MFM]

I still love that album.  Has to the best of all time.

January 12

Cimtech 46C Receives Approval from Boeing Cimcool Global Industrial Fluids has received Boeing approval for Cimcool Cimtech 46C Metalworking Fluid for moderate duty grinding of hard metals, including cobalt, stellite, and titanium alloys.  [MFM]

January 7

More winter tips from ITW Rocol:
Is it OK to put antifreeze into your coolant?  [MFM]
The proper way to protect your coolant.  [MFM]

January 5

Winter weather and skin care
Another winter tip from ITW Rocol to help prvent skin irritation during cold weather.  [MFM]
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