Soraluce's 'green' machine agenda

Soraluce's commitment to its Ecodesign philosophy is demonstrated by its participation in a number of European-wide projects and its quality accreditations. These include ISO 9001 (it was the first European manufacturer of milling/milling-boring machines to attain this) and IQNET (Structural Funds programmes), as well as being the only European machine tool manufacturer to achieve the Silver Q for management quality awarded by the Basque government/EFQM. Part of the Danobat Group, the company was also the first European manufacturer of milling/milling and boring machines to attain the ISO 14001 Environmental Management System Certificate. Soraluce's initial eco-design research commenced in 2006 when it began the Prolima project (www.prolima.net) in conjunction with Danobat Group's Ideko technology centre and 22 other European organisations. The aim of the project – which ended in 2008 – was to adapt eco-design methodologies to machine tools. Soraluce's Ecodesign policies result in machines that offer: [] Reduced energy consumption – machine parts are designed and manufactured with minimal excess material for machining; the use of roller guides minimises friction; more efficient (in terms of current use and torque output) Ecodyn motors are used; and high-torque motors for headstocks replace kinematic chains and thus reduce heat, noise and energy loss. [] Reduced cutting fluids – use of the MQL air/oil system eliminates coolant, a high-cost pollutant. [] Reduced raw materials – finite element modelling minimises material wastage, and the machines' cast structure is completely re-useable at life cycle end (circa 25 years) via the application of new guides and drives. [] Reduced lubricant – use of special low environmental-impact greases instead of oil reduces consumption as well as eliminates pollutants from guide lubricants and the recycling/cleaning of contaminated oil. [] Reduced carbon miles – the preference for locally-sourced parts means that both transport costs and the manufacturing carbon footprint are less. [] Reduced environmental impact of paintwork – water-based paint can be used.