Evaluation of minimal quantities of lubricant in end milling

Abstract

When considering machinability parameters, the use of coolant is indispensable in metal cutting operations. However, stricter environmental regulations are making the use of an ample amount of conventional coolant impossible because of its negative impact on the environment. Consequently, the use of minimal quantities of lubricant (MQL) can be regarded as an alternative solution in which the functionality of cooling and lubrication can be achieved by a tiny amount of cutting oil. In this study, flood coolant (42 l min-1) was used compared to the MQL amount of 8.5 ml h-1 and the comparative effectiveness was investigated in terms of cutting force, tool wear, surface roughness, and chip shape. Unlike the catastrophic tool failure in flood cooling, the use of MQL resulted in the cutting edge remaining intact, in spite of a higher flank width. The findings of this study show that MQL may be considered to be an economical and environmentally compatible lubrication technique.