Tribological Characteristics and Cutting Performance of Lubricant Esters for Semi-dry Machining

In semi-dry machining, such as minimal quantity lubrication (MQL) machining, a very small amount of a lubricant plays an Important role to achieve a successful operation. This study investigates the tribological behavior of lubricants for semi-dry application in connection with their cutting performance. In MQL turning, synthetic biodegradable esters are superior to a vegetable oil and provide the satisfactory cutting performance compared with a conventional cutting fluid of flood supply. Their tribological action is further evaluated with the aid of tool surface analysis and the adsorption characteristics of a model ester are fundamentally examined using a controlled atmosphere machining apparatus.