Study on friction reduction performance of MoS2/SiO2 hybrid nanofluids with minimum quantity injection lubrication during the drilling of Inconel 718

Purpose To address the problems of excessive drilling force, severe tool wear and poor machining quality caused by inadequate lubrication during the drilling of nickel-based superalloys, this study aims to propose a novel lubrication approach that integrates a water-based MoS2/SiO2 hybrid nano cutting fluid with minimum quantity injection lubrication (MQIL). Design/methodology/approach Hybrid nanofluids with various MoS2/SiO2 mass ratios were prepared and their viscosity, wettability and tribological properties were measured to obtain the optimal formulation. Then, drilling tests of Inconel 718 were conducted to evaluate the friction-reduction performance of nano cutting fluids by measuring drilling forces, tool wear and hole quality. Findings The results indicate that, when the mass ratio of MoS2 to SiO2 nanoparticles was 3:1, the viscosity and wettability of hybrid nanofluids were significantly enhanced and the friction coefficient was evidently reduced. Hybrid nanofluids with MQIL could improve the machinability of nickel-based superalloys. Compared with dry drilling, hybrid nanofluids reduced the drilling force by 12.17% and tool wear by 41.03% and markedly improved the surface quality of machined holes and decreased the exit burr height. Originality/value A water-based MoS2/SiO2 hybrid nano cutting fluid combined with MQIL was proposed and its friction-reduction mechanism and effectiveness during the drilling of nickel-based superalloys were experimentally verified, providing a new method for high-quality drilling of difficult-to-machine materials. Peer review The peer review history for this article is available at: Link to the website of publons