In thread manufacturing, there is often an unrecognized gap in the process chain: the need for manual intervention to lubricate core holes. Especially when machining high-alloy steels, the machine’s internal coolant system reaches its physical limits. This results in necessary program stops to manually apply lubricant.
7. April 2026
Spotfix closes a gap in the process chain
Fully automated core hole lubrication eliminates unproductive downtime
But what if the machine never had to stop for lubrication, manual lubrication were eliminated from the work area, and the cycle time of modern CNC machining centers remained uninterrupted?
With Spotfix, the vision of an uninterrupted process chain becomes a reality. The reliable lubrication system is clamped into a holder like a tool. Depending on requirements, Spotfix applies the lubricant on one or more levels. Integration into the fully automated process eliminates unproductive downtime and paves the way for true process optimization.
Benefits for occupational safety
However, modern manufacturing also entails responsibility for the operator. Using Spotfix offers significant benefits for workplace safety, as it automates the manufacturing process and eliminates the need for dangerous manual interventions. Since Spotfix operates autonomously, it completely eliminates direct contact between employees and lubricants and cutting fluid mist. Safety and cleanliness go hand in hand here.
Benefits
- Eliminating the need for manual intervention in the work area
Since Spotfix automatically applies cutting grease to the core hole, there is no longer any need to pause the machine program to manually lubricate the holes. This eliminates the need for potentially hazardous manual intervention.
- Prevention of contact with coolant-lubricants
Contactless manufacturing eliminates direct skin contact with coolant-lubricants. This is a significant contribution to health, as contact with KSS is one of the most common causes of skin conditions, mucous membrane irritation, and respiratory irritation in metalworking.
- Cleanliness in the Workplace
Optimized and precise dosing prevents over-lubrication. This stops lubricants from getting into the machine or onto the shop floor in an uncontrolled manner. The risk of slipping is significantly reduced.
- Reduced risk of falls
When machining very large workpieces, threads often need to be cut in positions that are difficult to reach manually or require the use of ladders and work platforms. Automation with Spotfix ensures that no employee has to climb to great heights for the lubrication process, thereby drastically reducing the risk of falls.
- Time Factor
When working on large components, scaffolding or ladders must be set up with great care. In addition to personal protective equipment, safety harnesses are mandatory to prevent falls and slips. These must be adjusted to fit the wearer’s body shape so as not to compromise their protective effect. Before manually lubricating the core holes, it is also necessary to verify that the protective and safety devices are functioning properly.