Some studies about machining of MMC'S by MQL (minimum quantity of lubricant) conditions

Abstract

The use of cutting fluids during machining operations is becoming problematic due to the environmental issues and employee health aspects. The use of cutting fluids is beneficial since it improves the tool life. The cutting fluids used for machining represents around 16 to 20% of the manufacturing costs; hence the extravagant use of cutting fluids may be restricted. But it should also be noted that some of the benefits of cutting fluids are not going to be available for dry machining and also dry machining will be acceptable only whenever the part quality and machining times achieved in wet machining are equalled or more. Hence the alternative is to machine with minimum quantity of lubricant (MQL). This paper deals with the machining of metal matrix composites (MMC) with MQL at different flow rates. It seen that MQL when properly applied will be able to give reasonable results in terms of cutting power, and surface finish.