How to Align Your Factory Operations with ESG Goals Using Minimal Quantity Lubrication (MQL)
As sustainability becomes a top priority across industries, companies are under growing pressure to align their operations with ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) criteria. From reducing emissions to ensuring worker safety and improving governance transparency, every aspect of manufacturing is being re-evaluated through a sustainability lens. One often-overlooked—but impactful—area is the lubrication strategy in machining processes.
The Environmental Edge: Minimal Waste, Maximum Efficiency
Traditional flood coolant systems rely on high volumes of liquid lubricants, which results in:
- Excessive consumption and high disposal costs
- Significant environmental contamination
- Increased energy usage for pumping and filtration
By using MQL (Minimal Quantity Lubrication)—often implemented as an oil-mist system—the lubricant is delivered as an ultra-fine mist directly to the cutting area. This method significantly reduces oil usage, the need for disposal, and energy consumption, while still delivering excellent cooling and lubrication. It’s a simple yet powerful way to meet ESG environmental targets.
Social Benefits: Improving Workplace Health and Safety
Making the switch to an oil-mist system also enhances worker well-being:
- Cleaner air with reduced oil mist exposure
- Less skin and respiratory irritation
- A tidier work environment with fewer fluid drips and less cleaning required
These improvements contribute to higher morale and safer working conditions—crucial elements in the social pillar of ESG.
Governance: Sustainable Practices You Can Measure
Organizations aiming for certifications like ISO 14001 or EcoVadis can demonstrate tangible ESG gains by adopting MQL systems:
- Measurable reductions in waste and resource usage
- Proven investments in cleaner, more efficient technologies
- Stronger performance indicators that boost stakeholder confidence
Spotlight: Chiba’s AMLS Micro Lubricating & Cooling Oil‑Mist System
A standout case in point is Chiba’s AMLS Micro Lubricating & Cooling Oil‑Mist System—a compact, precision-driven solution designed for modern manufacturing environments. This system:
- Generates extremely fine oil mist for effective lubrication and cooling, even in high-speed machining contexts
- Enables adjustable oil delivery through air pressure and volume control, optimizing usage and efficiency
- Offers models such as AMLS-101-T1 (110 V, single spray bar, 1 L or 2 L tank) and AMLS-202-T1 (220 V, dual spray bar, 1 L or 2 L tank), catering to diverse operational needs
Integrating this system allows manufacturers to preserve tool life, enhance finished part quality, and significantly reduce oil and energy usage—all aligning directly with core ESG objectives.
ESG Summary: Why MQL Matters in Every Pillar
| ESG Pillar | MQL Contribution |
|---|---|
| Environmental | Cuts lubricant usage by up to 90%, lowers waste and energy consumption |
| Social | Safer and cleaner work environment with reduced exposure to fluids |
| Governance | Easy to quantify impacts and demonstrate ESG compliance during audits |
Final Thoughts
Switching to a Minimal Quantity Lubrication approach—especially with technology like Chiba’s AMLS Micro Oil-Mist System—delivers tangible benefits across environmental, social, and governance dimensions. It’s a strategic, operational upgrade that advances sustainability while boosting efficiency and safety.
Interested in Implementing MQL in Your Factory?
Contact Chiba Today to explore the AMLS Micro Oil‑Mist System and learn how it can elevate your factory’s sustainability performance.