Investigation of Machining Performance of MQL and MQCL Hard Turning Using Nano Cutting Fluids

Cutting fluids used in the metal machining industry have exerted serious impacts on the environment and human health. In addition, the very high cutting heat and forces in machining-hardened steels have been a growing concern in the metal cutting field. Hence, new, eco-friendly cooling and lubricating techniques are necessary to study and develop. Minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) and minimum quantity cooling lubrication (MQCL) using nano cutting fluids have been proven as alternative solutions for machining difficult-to cut materials while retaining an environmentally friendly characteristic. Accordingly, this paper aims to analyze and evaluate the hard turning efficiency of 90CrSi (60 divided by 62 HRC) steel using MQL and MQCL conditions, using Al2O3 and MoS2 nano cutting fluids. The 2(k-p) experimental design and analysis of variance (ANOVA) were used to study the influence of input parameters including fluid type, lubrication method, nanoparticle type, nanoparticle concentration, cutting speed and feed rate on surface roughness. The obtained results showed that the machinability of CNMG120404 TM T9125 carbide tools was improved and the highest machinable hardness was increased from 35 HRC to 60 divided by 62 HRC (rising by approximately 71.4 divided by 77.1%) by using the nanofluid MQL and MQCL methods. Furthermore, MQCL gives better performance than MQL, and the Al2O3 nanofluid exhibits the better result in terms of surface roughness values than the MoS2 nanofluid. Feed rate displays the strongest influence on surface roughness, while fluid type, nanoparticle concentration and cutting speed show low impacts. From these results, technical guidance will be provided for further studies using Al2O3 and MoS2 nano cutting fluids for MQL and MQCL methods, as well as their application in machining practice.