High-speed milling Inconel 718 using Electrostatic Minimum Quantity Lubrication (EMQL)

Abstract

Inconel 718 superalloy is widely used in the aerospace and nuclear industries. It is a difficult-to-cut material representing short tool life and high machining costs. Minimum Quantity Lubrication (MQL) is adopted to extend tool life and minimize machining costs. However, it is not effective in high-speed milling processes. A new Electrostatic Minimum Quantity Lubrication (EMQL) nozzle design is presented. The performance of the EMQL system in end milling Inconel 718 is assessed in terms of tool life, specific cutting energy and, surface roughness; and is benchmarked against MQL.