Development of an Energy-Efficient Air-Cooling Structure for Machine Tools Utilizing Factory Environmental Characteristics

This study proposes an air-cooling method that utilizes the stable, low temperature air layer near the factory floor to improve energy efficiency and machining accuracy in machine tools. Environmental measurements confirmed that the air near the floor exhibits minimal temperature fluctuations, forming a stable thermal environment. A simplified structural model was developed to evaluate heat exchange between the floor and air layer, and a CNC lathe equipped with an air-cooling structure was designed. CFD and thermal fluid simulations demonstrated improved cooling performance and reduced variation in machining diameter. Experimental validation confirmed that the system-maintained machining accuracy even under varying ambient temperatures. These findings indicate that the proposed air-cooling method is an effective alternative to conventional water-cooling systems, offering both energy savings and high-precision machining. This approach contributes to sustainable manufacturing by leveraging naturally stable thermal conditions within the factory environment.