Machinability investigation of Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy under dry, flood, MQL and nanofluid-MQL techniques using textured tools

Abstract

ABSTRACT While machining titanium alloys, using metalworking fluids (MWFs) helps improve the tribological properties. However, its usage is restricted considering the harmful effects on health and the environment under sustainable machining. Using minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) to improve machining performance without utilising an excessive amount of cutting fluid is becoming more prevalent. Pure-MQL, however, might not be adequate for machining titanium alloys. Due to their improved heat transfer capabilities, nanofluid-based lubricants are extremely popular for use in the machining of superalloys. In this direction, the efficacy of the MQL mixture can be improved by using vegetable-oil-based cutting fluid reinforced with nanoparticles. Therefore, this study compares dry, flood, MQL and nanofluid-MQL techniques while machining Ti-6Al-4V titanium alloy with textured tools. The Hexagonal Boron Nitride (hBN) nanoparticles are added to the base fluid to develop a nanofluid-MQL mixture. Machinability indicators are analysed, namely tool wear, surface roughness, power consumption, and specific cutting energy. The outcomes showcased the efficacy of nanofluid-MQL with lower surface roughness, tool wear, and specific energy requirements compared to other conditions. It is observed that combining vegetable oil and hBN nanoparticles in nanofluid-MQL reduced friction and improved cooling in the machining interfaces.