Multi-criteria optimization of turning of martensitic stainless steel for sustainability

Abstract

A modern production strategy faces the increasing challenges of practicing green production without sacrificing machining performance. Thus, this paper compares emulsion cooling, minimum quantity lubrication without and with a Ranque-Hilsch vortex tube when turning martensitic stainless steel X20Cr13. Experimental tests were organized corresponding to Taguchi orthogonal array L27(34). The Taguchi based entropy weighted grey relational analysis was exploited to acquire the optimum combination of cutting speed, feed, depth of cut and cooling method that concurrently minimize surface roughness and tool life while maximizing material removal rate. The combination of minimum quantity lubrication with Ranque-Hilsch vortex tube confirmed to be the best cooling method. Hence, the use of classic metalworking fluids when turning martensitic stainless steels can be excluded, which is important for reducing environmental pollution and hence for machining sustainability. (Received in August 2019, accepted in November 2019. This paper was with the authors 1 month for 1 revision.).