Environmental Goal Achieved: Oil-Free Soft Machining Since October 2026

In October 2026, Schleicher Fahrzeugteile achieved an environmental goal it had set for itself under ISO 14100 and fully converted its soft-machining operations to oil-free cooling lubricants.

During the soft machining of workpieces (for example, turning and milling prior to the hardening process), metalworking fluids are indispensable. They are our main processing aid, reducing the heat generated during machining and protecting both the cutting tools and the manufacturing process. Instead of fossil- or mineral oil-based products, Schleicher Fahrzeugteile now relies on modern, oil-free alternatives.

The change offers numerous benefits:

• Significantly improved pH levels
• The lowest water hazard classification for the process water
• Doubling of the service life of the cooling lubricant
• Reliable manufacturing processes
• Enhanced corrosion protection and improved machine cleanliness

Since an oil-free quenching medium is already being used in the induction hardening process, Schleicher Fahrzeugteile is consistently pursuing the next step: in the long term, the company aims to transition its grinding fluid to an oil-free solution as well.

Through this initiative, we are continuously improving our manufacturing processes while making an active contribution to environmental protection.