TPT July 2021

AR T I C L E

Quaker Houghton

Improving efficiency By providing clear real-time data, engineers have full visibility of their fluid performance as it is at any given moment. They can ensure that all vital fluids are operating at consistent performance levels, improving the productivity and efficiency of machinery. The frequency of monitoring tests can be set up as required – including every minute – and alerts and alarms will be generated automatically if system parameters are breached, giving ample time to take corrective action well before problems escalate. The capability to monitor specific equipment including mission critical machinery means that QH FLUIDTREND™ has an important role to play in maintenance programmes, whether

they’re preventative, corrective and risk or condition based. Machine status and issues are easily identified with a traffic light system, enabling crews to prioritise work. This means that manufacturers are able to reduce machine downtime and fluid usage while also improving service life and productivity. Moreover, as dosing and top-ups can be undertaken automatically, there is no need to physically visit the equipment, saving labour time and effort, ensuring optimal control of metalworking fluids and equipment. It also prevents people from making mistakes and using the wrong fluids. Repor ting excellence A fully auditable solution, QH FLUIDTREND™, allows users to analyse both performance and cost trends for any given machine. For example, it’s able to collate data generated during oil top-ups, providing detailed analysis for each Quaker Houghton Quaker Houghton is the global expert in industrial process fluids. With a robust presence around the world, including operations in over 25 countries, its customers include thousands of the world’s most advanced and specialised steel, aluminium, automotive, aerospace, offshore, can, mining, and metalworking companies. Its high-performing, innovative and sustainable solutions are backed by best-in-class technology, deep process knowledge and customised services. With 4,000 employees, including chemists, engineers and industry experts, we partner with our customers to improve their operations so they can run even more efficiently, even more effectively, whatever comes next. Quaker Houghton is headquartered in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania, located near Philadelphia in the US.

application point, including leakage, cost analysis and usage trends, all of which informs more efficient and cost-effective lubrication. Equally, it is able to provide a detailed cost analysis of usage for specific manufacturing areas. Trends are presented in real-time on the dashboard, and a variety of reports can be quickly and easily generated or printed with a simple click, giving engineers and production teams clear visibility of what’s happening in every area of the plant. Everything is available immediately, streamlining administration. Where required, laboratory analysis can be accessed directly through the portal, which is available on any mobile device. Easy management of service Servicing can also be controlled by an app, including on hand- held devices. Users simply scan the QR code at the point of application and input service activities or undertake remote maintenance adjustments. They can also trigger test results, which are then available to everyone via QH FLUIDTREND™. This ensures error free data collection. Ensuring compliance The management of process fluids and chemicals can be complex, especially in terms of compliance. Environmental, Health & Safety (EHS) guidance relating to the control and disposal of metalworking fluids is constantly evolving, causing regular changes to safety data sheets. The EU is especially rigorous in terms of safety criteria when using certain chemicals, as set out in REACH (the Registration Evaluation and Restriction of Chemical Substances). Keeping abreast of the changes is vital but presents challenges for many manufacturers – a problem which is eliminated by QH FLUIDTREND™. All relevant global legislation is monitored and regularly updated by Quaker Houghton’s EHS and product stewardship team, ensuring manufacturers automatically have access to

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JULY 2021