The aerospace and defence industry demands uncompromising precision, reliability, and process stability. Components such as turbine blades, engine casings, landing gear, and structural assemblies are manufactured from advanced materials that challenge conventional machining processes. To achieve micron-level accuracy, superior surface integrity, and consistent productivity, manufacturers require more than advanced machine tools—they need specialized process fluids engineered for demanding applications. oelheld, a global specialist in industrial lubricants and process fluids, delivers innovative grinding oils, EDM dielectrics, and forging lubricants that help manufacturers improve productivity, extend tool life, and achieve world-class component quality.
Grinding Fluids for Difficult-to-Machine Aerospace Alloys
Grinding nickel-based superalloys such as Inconel and Nimonic requires exceptional cooling, lubrication, and thermal stability. Excessive heat generation can lead to surface burns, dimensional inaccuracies, and reduced component integrity.
oelheld’s DiaGrind IN is specifically engineered for high-speed grinding of aerospace materials, minimizing thermal damage while delivering outstanding dimensional accuracy and process reliability.
Complementing this, SintoGrind IN, a premium PAO-based grinding oil, offers superior surface finish, longer grinding wheel life, reduced cycle times, and excellent thermal and shear stability. Its low misting characteristics, high flash point, and low evaporation contribute to cleaner machines, reduced maintenance, and extended equipment life. Free from chlorine and heavy metals, SintoGrind IN also supports environmentally responsible manufacturing without compromising machining performance.
Advanced EDM Dielectrics for Precision Manufacturing
Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) plays a vital role in producing intricate aerospace and defence components where conventional machining is often not feasible. The performance of EDM operations depends heavily on the quality of the dielectric fluid.
oelheld’s IONOPLUS®, IONOVIT®, and IONOFIL® dielectric fluids are developed to maximize machining efficiency while reducing operating costs. These advanced fluids deliver higher material removal rates, lower electrode wear, improved wire life, excellent dielectric strength, superior flushing performance, and exceptional surface finishes with minimal polishing requirements.
Their outstanding ageing stability extends fluid life while minimizing maintenance. The formulations prevent microcracks and cobalt leaching, making them ideal for precision aerospace applications. Compatible with all common filtration systems, these fluids support safe, sustainable, and globally compliant manufacturing practices.
“We achieved substantial savings on fluids and filters while improving EDM surface quality. The low odour, operator friendly formulation, and environmental benefits have made a significant difference. Overall, we’ve gained the productivity equivalent of 5–6 additional machines.” — Sean Moore, Lufthansa Shannon – Turbine Technologies
Proven Results in Aerospace Manufacturing
The performance benefits of oelheld’s dielectric technology are demonstrated through its successful implementation at Lufthansa Shannon Turbine Technologies.
Following the adoption of IONOPLUS® and IONOVIT®, the company achieved a 24% increase in productivity, 75% reduction in consumable costs, superior EDM surface quality, and significantly improved operator comfort due to low-odour formulations. The productivity gains were equivalent to adding five to six additional EDM machines across its fleet of 24 machines, resulting in substantial operational savings and improved manufacturing efficiency.
Forging Lubricants for Sustainable Performance
Beyond machining, oelheld also supports advanced forging operations through its AirForge® range of glass coatings and water-miscible forging lubricants. Designed for hot and warm forging applications, AirForge enhances die life, improves process reliability, reduces forming steps, and increases productivity across demanding aerospace forging operations.
Developed under oelheld’s HUTEC (Human. Technology. Sustainability.) philosophy, these lubricants are REACH compliant, free from heavy metals, low in emissions, machine-friendly, and manufactured using sustainable raw materials. Their environmentally responsible formulations help manufacturers achieve both operational excellence and sustainability goals.
As aerospace and defence manufacturing continues to evolve, precision process fluids have become essential for achieving higher productivity, superior quality, and sustainable operations. Through advanced grinding fluids, high-performance EDM dielectrics, and innovative forging lubricants, oelheld enables manufacturers to machine and forge complex components with confidence. By combining technical expertise with environmentally responsible innovation, oelheld continues to drive precision, productivity, and performance for the next generation of aerospace manufacturing.
