Precision control of lubrication

Automatic systems for lubricating tool or workpiece in metal forming operations.

Manufactured by spray technology specialist Spraying Systems Co., the world market leader, these systems offer a cost-effective alternative to cruder methods of liquid transfer, which rely on oil baths, felts, rollers or gravity-feed flooding. Lubricant is applied via closely controlled spray nozzles, with spray patterns, positional adjustment and timing options to match the special needs of each forming operation.

The result is thorough, accurately directed, consistent lubrication, with no housekeeping problems and no misting or other Health & Safety hazards. Clean-up work is virtually eliminated and less time is needed for post-production component cleaning. Lubrication consistency is assured − an essential element in preventing premature tool or die wear and maintaining the consistency of the end-product.

A direct consequence of improving liquid transfer efficiency is that lubricant consumption is much reduced − reductions as high as 90% have been achieved. It follows that savings in materials cost can also be significant − dramatically so when the lubricant is graphite-based, as in hot forging. Established applications for AutoJet systems include lubrication of coils, blanks, pipe sections, wires, bars, stamping and forming tools and forging dies.

They are equally suited to the application of anti-corrosive protective coatings. Two main system types, both modular, are available: AutoJet L210 systems, using airless nozzles, are for spraying low viscosity media. AutoJet P400 systems, using air atomising nozzles, can spray low or high viscosity media. A typical system comprises base unit, with pumps, liquid reservoir(s), filters and controls, and a coil lubricator in which the spray nozzles are housed.

There is a wide range of band widths, spray patterns and volumes, and numerous equipment options. System components are also available individually, for integration with an existing lubrication set-up. More information at www.uk.spray.com.