How Blaser Swisslube’s “Liquid Tool” is powering a manufacturing transformation

By: Kathryn Gerardino-Elagio

That’s the promise behind Blaser Swisslube’s “liquid tool” philosophy—a transformative approach that is redefining how metalworking fluids contribute to competitive advantage across South East Asia’s dynamic industrial landscape.

In a recent interview with International Metalworking News for Asia, Weeming Soon, Managing Director South East Asia and Taiwan at Blaser Swisslube (S) Pte Ltd, shared insights into how the company’s fluid strategy goes beyond lubrication to become a key enabler of productivity, efficiency, and sustainability in modern manufacturing.

The Liquid Tool: From Consumable to Competitive Advantage

At the core of Blaser Swisslube’s mission is a mindset shift: metalworking fluids are not just consumables—they are strategic tools that impact everything from machine uptime and energy use to workplace health and environmental compliance.

“We are not just providing a chemical product,” Weeming explained in the interview. “We deliver a comprehensive four-step solution—from in-depth analysis and application engineering to measurable implementation and sustained results. This is our value proposition to every customer in Southeast Asia.”

The company’s “liquid tool” approach includes: Thorough process and fluid analysis, Customised application engineering, Data-driven implementation, and Long-term monitoring and support.

This methodical process transforms coolant from a background element into a performance driver—one that delivers measurable business outcomes.

Aligning with Regional Priorities

South East Asia is rapidly becoming a global manufacturing hub, with countries like Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand attracting billions in foreign direct investment. This growth is driven by strong infrastructure, cost competitiveness, and a skilled workforce—but it also brings new challenges: Rising production and energy costs, strict environmental regulations, increasing demand for process automation and digitalisation, and labour shortages and worker health concerns.

Blaser Swisslube’s innovation-first philosophy is uniquely positioned to support manufacturers navigating this shift. Its Blasocut, a Bio-Concept coolant line—used by many of the region’s top-performing companies—is specifically designed for biodegradability, reduced waste generation, and operator safety.

“As South East Asia pushes toward digital and green transformation, we want to be the partner helping manufacturers reduce their carbon footprint without compromising performance,” said Weeming.

Proven in the Field: Real Impact, Real Results

Across industries and countries, Blaser’s clients are reporting dramatic improvements in both operational efficiency and working conditions. Some standout success stories include:

• Indonesia – PT. Cahaya Sukses Mandiri (Automotive Components): Faced with rising competition, the company partnered with Blaser to improve productivity and reduce costs. The result? A 30% reduction in production costs, longer coolant life, and improved surface finish—achieved through close collaboration and leadership support from owner Mr. Willy.
• Vietnam – 29 Mechanical One Member Limited Liability Company (Defense Sector): Inconsistent tool life and frequent coolant changes were causing production disruptions. With Blaser’s support, the company saw a 39% boost in process stability, reduced machine downtime, and improved operator satisfaction thanks to more stable and cleaner coolant conditions.
• Singapore – UMS (Semiconductor Supplier): Operating under some of the most stringent quality and environmental standards, UMS needed a fluid solution that could meet technical and regulatory demands. Blaser helped the company achieve a 50% increase in tool life, resulting in better process control, lower costs, and fewer line interruptions.
• Philippines – Kinergy (Contract Manufacturing for High-Tech Equipment): A case that highlights the human side of production: employees were suffering from coolant odors and skin irritation. After switching to Blaser’s Bio-Concept fluid, the company eliminated these issues, reduced sick leave, and maintained high output—proving that performance and safety can go hand-in-hand.
•  

“These stories reflect how our ‘liquid tool’ delivers real value,” said Weeming. “It’s not just about product—it’s about solving challenges holistically, from machine efficiency to human well-being.”

The Productivity Trophy: Celebrating Impact and Innovation

To recognise its customers’ achievements, Blaser Swisslube organises the Productivity Trophy every two years. Launched in 2011, the initiative has grown into a global platform for showcasing how companies are leveraging metalworking fluid technology to improve manufacturing performance.

The 2025 edition, held in Vietnam, brought together industry leaders from Indonesia, Singapore, Vietnam, and the Philippines. Categories included: Coolant Optimisation, Productivity Increase, Total Cost of Ownership Reduction, Process Optimisation, and Sustainability.

Each submission was evaluated for technical innovation, execution, and relevance to broader industry challenges. The transparent review process included both regional and headquarters leadership, ensuring that winners represented excellence and replicability.

“Vietnam was the ideal host this year,” said Weeming. “It’s the fastest-growing manufacturing base in the region, and this event allowed us to spotlight best practices that can inspire the rest of Southeast Asia.”

Beyond recognition, the event served as a collaborative platform—deepening ties with local manufacturers and encouraging the adoption of high-performance fluids as strategic enablers of progress.

Looking to 2027 and Beyond

Blaser’s next Productivity Trophy is scheduled for 2027, with potential host countries including Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia—key players in the region’s industrial growth. But as Weeming emphasised, the real goal goes far beyond an awards event.

“Our mission is to drive continuous improvement across the manufacturing ecosystem,” he said. “Every success story strengthens our shared vision for a more efficient, sustainable, and forward-thinking future.”

Blaser Swisslube’s long-term strategy includes expanding technical support centers, investing in local expertise, and partnering with vocational schools and universities to share knowledge and develop industry talent.

Conclusion: The Future Is Fluid

As South East Asia’s manufacturing sector accelerates into a new era—defined by automation, environmental accountability, and global competition—companies must rethink every part of their process. Blaser Swisslube’s “liquid tool” philosophy represents a bold and practical path forward.

By combining innovation, sustainability, and partnership, Blaser is helping manufacturers turn fluids into a source of strength, not just a line item on a procurement sheet.

“We are proud of what our customers have achieved with us,” concluded Weeming. “With every partnership, we reinforce our commitment to building a smarter, cleaner, and more resilient manufacturing future in South East Asia.”