Localized Injection of Cutting Fluid in Turning Operation

ABSTRACTThe choice of lubricant type and the technique for applying lubricant are very important for machining economics, environmental and health issues as well as the workpiece machinability. In this study, a new lubrication technique which is the localized injection of cutting fluid (LIF) is presented and examined when turning different materials (Steel, Brass and Aluminum) at different cutting conditions. Different cutting fluid viscosities were used and compared to dry and wet conditions. Compared to other techniques, the reduction in the quantity of cutting oil in the machining process when using LIF technique is more than 99 % in relation to wet flooding technique that leads to lower machining cost. This small percentage is localized continually at the cutting zone. Experiments showed that machinability was inhanced when using LIF technique. It is found that the volumetric flow rate and viscosity of fluid plays an important role in the evaluation of cutting force, surface roughness and tool wear.