Experimental investigations and optimization of machining performance during turning of EN-31 steel using TOPSIS approach

Abstract

Machining of difficult to cut material at advanced range of process parameters is the requirement of modern day machining scenario for achieving the goals of sustainable machining through utilization of modern cooling techniques to minimizing the friction, heat generation and tool damage. Consequently, leads to profitable machining under the provision of suitable volume, application method and environmental friendly cutting fluids. Contrary to this, larger flow rate and inferior methodology of cutting fluid application leads to various health problems, environment issues and imperfect product quality. So, to achieve targets the sustainable machining, the firm has to meet certain environmental norms regarding the application and disposal of cutting fluids. Therefore, to tackle the aforementioned ecological issues the dry machining is preferred which exhibit solution, but this option does not endure economic plan at accelerated machining parameter levels due to lower tool life and impaired quality of product. Hence, the alternative to all these situations are the requirement of such a cooling system which does not pollute the environment, operator friendly as well as economical to use. Henceforth, the minimum quantity lubrication using soybean oil has been used in present investigation as a replacement to flood lubrication. The experiments have been conducted on EN-31 Steel taking advanced ranges of machining parameter in dry and M.Q.L system. Research outcomes revealed that the M.Q.L machining improved the surface finish, lowered the cutting temperature and enhanced the chip reduction coefficient with comparison to dry machining system. The Parametric optimization evaluated by TOPSIS approach pointed out that the best machining combination has been observed at 196 m/min, 0.088 mm/rev in vegetable oil environment.