Minimal quantity lubrication in turning: effect on tool wear

Industries and researchers are trying to reduce the use of coolant lubricant fluids in metal cutting to obtain safety, environmental and economical benefits. The aim of this research is to determine if the minimal quantity lubrication (MQL) technique in turning gives some advantages in terms of tool wear reduction. This paper reports the results obtained from turning tests and SEM analysis of tools, at two feed rates and two cutting lengths, using MQL on the rake and flank of the tool. The results obtained show that when MQL is applied to the tool rake, tool life is generally no different from dry conditions, but MQL applied to the tool flank can increase tool life.