Sustainable machining is gaining attention in modern manufacturing due to its cleaner operations, improved resource utilization, and reduced environmental impact. Among sustainable machining methods, minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) successfully minimizes cutting fluid consumption while maintaining adequate cooling and lubrication. This review examines recent developments and future directions in MQL-assisted machining, with particular emphasis on machine learning (ML)-based modeling and optimization techniques. A systematic review comprising literature identification, screening, scientometric analysis, and critical evaluation was employed to analyze 120 papers published mainly between 2010 and 2026. The reviewed studies employed ML models such as artificial neural networks, support vector machines, random forests, gradient boosting, and hybrid optimization approaches to predict machinability parameters, including surface roughness, tool wear, cutting force, cutting temperature, energy consumption, and chip morphology. The findings indicate that ML-assisted MQL processes improve prediction accuracy, machining efficiency, process monitoring, and sustainability performance by reducing energy consumption, minimizing cutting fluid usage, and improving machining quality. The analysis also identifies key research gaps and prospects for intelligent and sustainable machining.
Paturi et al. (Mon,) studied this question.