Simple Solutions That Work! Issue 16

or semi synthetic for easier disposal. This search may include establishing a dilution ratio for the lubricant that better improves the process. Proportional mixing machines are a productive and constant means of creating a uniform formula, and even the manner to stir the mix is important as too much agitation can degrade the die lubricant. Once these are confirmed, consistently test your lubricant and/or ratio throughout the shift, day, week, batch, and even operator to ensure that the advancement will be realized. Testing the lubrication should not only take place from the mixing device or holding tank, but also from the spray nozzle to confirm that the delivery system is working properly. Different testing methods include refractometers, weights and measures, moisture balance analyzer, or a simple and fast hydrometer. The use of evaporators to eliminate waste lubricants is another area of GHG emissions. This process can be minimized or even eliminated by a reclamation system, so that you are reusing at least some of the lubricant to maximize efficiency and minimize waste haul. This will lower your overall emissions and improve your ESG score. Again, synthetics work well to reclaim but there are many to choose from and you will want to be certain to inform the lubricant manufacturer of your desire to reclaim and reuse. This will allow the lubricant manufacturer to include proper biocide additives to minimize biological growth, which can be harmful to the product as well as the people touching and breathing in. IMPORTANCE OF DELIVERY SYSTEMS TO REDUCE EMISSIONS The delivery and application of your lubrication will also improve your Scope 1 emissions. A good test for this is to tour your factory and identify lubricant not on the target zone (e.g., puddles on the floor, machinery, boot soles, or sprayed into the air). Where and how much lubricant being applied can substantially reduce your overall consumption and lower your carbon footprint. Spray nozzles are a key component as they can help regulate the amount of lubricant along with the shape of the spray. Pin- pointing the location of spray is essential to prevent overuse and proper functionality. However, having a proper delivery system to the nozzle will manage timing and volume automatically and even store the entire recipe per part number for sound process capability. The recipe can then be ‘locked’ so that manipulation cannot take place. Up to 24 nozzles can be independently programmed to shoot lube, air, or skip cycles on these delivery systems to minimize usage. Many times, manual changes occur in the plant due to what seems to be lubrication failure. Parts are not forming correctly or releasing so operators adjust as necessary to keep production moving. However, after close examination of the process will indicate many times that an overcompensation of lube is being applied. This is due to either an improper dilution ratio, or a bad nozzle that is not spraying correctly. Nozzles typically get obstructed from the absence of maintenance. Again, having a comprehensive delivery system will notice dormancy and will indicate that a purge of the lines and nozzles is required. Flow meters also aid to indicate under or over utilization of lube. If using a water-based lubricant, have your water tested for hardness to prevent a buildup of calcium which will restrict a line size causing volume issues and the possibility of no lubricant to be dispensed. Improper agitation Wet floor FLEXIBLE MANUFACTURING & ENGINEERING TRENDS 11