Green Manufacturing from Taiwan Brings Sustainability to Thai Factories: Protecting the Planet and the People with Plant-Based Cutting Fluids from MCM 

In the metal processing industry—particularly in mold manufacturing and automotive parts production—coolants and cutting fluids account for a significant portion of total machining costs, sometimes up to 20%. As such, cost reduction is a major concern for manufacturers. The plant-based cutting fluids developed by Mecom Industries Corp. (MCM) presents a solution that not only reduces operating expenses but also aligns with the principles of green manufacturing, offering a sustainable and future-ready option for modern industry.

To better understand the real-world impact of cutting fluids in the manufacturing sector, MCM representative Dr. HO CHIEU GUAT to shares her insights:

“Our business focuses on promoting sustainability in both the environment and the industrial process. MCM’s plant-based cutting fluids represent a bright future for CNC-based industries transitioning toward greener practices.”

The Hidden Hazards of Petroleum-Based Fluids

“Did you know that most cutting fluids used in CNC machines are petroleum-based?” Dr. Ho begins with a question that sparks concern. Though petroleum derivatives—like plastics, fuel oils, and petroleum jelly—are common in daily life, their use in machining can pose hidden risks.

“During machining, petroleum-based fluids generate oil mist, vapor, and fine particulates that can be harmful to human health and the environment,” she explains. “This is particularly concerning in high-temperature cutting operations, where harmful exposure increases significantly.”

She adds that 80% of skin-related issues in machining operations are caused by direct contact with conventional cutting fluids. Moreover, global regulatory pressure—such as environmental laws, carbon taxes, and ESG waste reduction KPIs—has turned cutting fluid selection into a strategic concern for factories aiming to remain competitive.

The Cost Impact of Petroleum-Based Fluids

Environmental and health risks are only part of the problem. According to the research paper ‘Life Cycle Assessment to Establish Sustainable Cutting Fluid Strategy for Drilling Ti-6Al-4V’, cutting fluids contribute to 17–20% of total manufacturing costs, especially when dealing with difficult-to-machine materials. This finding aligns with data from ‘A Review on Green Machining’, which reports that automotive manufacturers spend up to 15% of their costs on cutting fluids alone—higher still in precision sectors like aerospace.

“One of the most effective solutions,” Dr. Ho explains, “is to switch to eco-friendly alternatives such as plant-based cutting fluids. These reduce airborne PM2.5, volatile oil emissions, and overall contamination, while also offering better tool life, rust protection, and skin safety. Products like Mecom MCM G2 are designed to meet these demands while improving sustainability.”

Plant-Based Cutting Fluids by MCM — A Responsible Step Toward Sustainability and Cost Reduction

For those unfamiliar with the concept, Dr. Ho explained that plant-based cutting fluids are synthetic esters derived from organic compounds, used to replace traditional mineral oil. These esters offer substantial environmental advantages, including up to 48% reduction in carbon monoxide emissions, 47% less particulate matter (PM), complete elimination of sulfur oxide (SOx), and up to 80% reduction in carcinogenic PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons). Their lifespan typically ranges from 5 to 10 years, reducing downstream waste, disposal costs, and production inefficiencies.

The performance benefits of these fluids are grouped into three categories:

Environmental Outcomes:

• Derived from biomass, enabling a closed carbon cycle aligned with Net Zero goals
• Made from biodegradable synthetic esters that can be reused
• Maintains stable quality during use, reducing acidification, wastewater, and carbon footprint

Worker Health Outcomes:

• Compliant with government health standards and free from substances of concern
• Does not require preservatives or biocides
• Gentle on human skin, minimizing allergic reactions

Safety Outcomes:

• High flash point (up to 300°C) minimizes vapor emissions
• Results in lower VOCs and improved air quality within factory environments

“In terms of environmental protection, plant-based cutting fluids are highly biodegradable and decompose rapidly after disposal. This significantly minimizes environmental pollution and cross-contamination. Regarding worker health, these fluids reduce the emission of harmful gases that can affect the respiratory system, contributing to a safer working environment. From a business and performance perspective, they offer excellent lubrication, superior cooling performance, and reliable rust prevention, ultimately extending tool life. In terms of resource management, these fluids provide a more stable supply chain, reducing concerns over raw material shortages and cost volatility. When it comes to compliance, the use of bio-based fluids supports regulatory adherence in sustainable manufacturing—both in labor protection and cost efficiency. These combined outcomes reflect the real value that MCM’s plant-based cutting fluids have already delivered in industrial applications.” As Dr. Ho concludes, her firsthand experience in the manufacturing industry clearly demonstrates the tangible benefits of adopting plant-based cutting fluids.

These real-world benefits—ranging from environmental impact to operational efficiency—can be experienced directly through MCM’s flagship plant-based cutting fluid solutions at TAIWAN EXCELLENCE PAVILION in MANUFACTURING EXPO 2025, Thailand. Learn more about SUPERSYN and SUPERSOL below.

SUPERSYN Climate-Friendly Plant-Based Cutting Fluid

This water-dilutable fluid is engineered for extended usage. It emits minimal odor and vapor, resists foaming, and maintains stable lubrication throughout its service life. It is ideal for milling a wide range of metals with excellent heat dissipation.

SUPERSOL ESG Plant-Based Cutting Fluid

Designed for premium-grade metalworking, SUPERSOL resists hard water, bacterial growth, and oxidation. It leaves minimal residue and supports high-speed machining. It is suitable for materials such as aluminum alloys, forged aluminum, stainless steel, and titanium. This product is ideal for industries requiring ultra-precise machining—like aerospace—while reducing both carbon emissions and operational costs.

Sustainability as a Strategic Edge for CNC-Based Manufacturing

The challenges of sustainable CNC production continue to evolve. Regulations in the supply chain, export criteria, and ESG mandates now require every manufacturer to rethink their processes. Dr. Ho emphasized the importance of adopting innovation—such as AI-powered process optimization and real-time data from smart sensors—to reduce waste, energy consumption, and production volatility.

“Today, green transformation is no longer optional—it has become a key driver of competitiveness and a benchmark for industrial capability. As a manufacturer deeply committed to ESG, MCM is an ideal partner for companies involved in mold making, automotive components, aerospace parts, medical devices, and other high-value sectors seeking sustainable plant-based cutting fluid solutions. Interested professionals can experience real-world applications and discuss technical benefits directly with the MCM team at Manufacturing Expo 2025, ensuring your production aligns with ESG targets and grows sustainably,” said Dr. Ho, highlighting the competitive opportunities that MCM, as a specialist in sustainable cutting fluids, can offer to Thai manufacturers. She invites visitors to explore and engage closely with MCM’s ESG-supporting solutions at the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion during the event.

Visitors can engage with MCM’s technical team at the Taiwan Excellence Pavilion, Booth 8F11, during Manufacturing Expo 2025 from June 18–21 at BITEC Bangna, to experience firsthand how plant-based cutting fluids support both ESG goals and business performance.

“Discover sustainable machining solutions that are smart, safe, and truly future-ready. Only at Manufacturing Expo 2025.”