Machining performance on SS304 using nontoxic, biodegradable vegetable-based cutting fluids

Abstract

A large amount of cutting fluids with mineral and petroleum bases combined with carcinogenic chemicals are used to enhance their effectiveness in the machining industry. Such fluids pose a high threat to the surroundings and people, who come into touch with these directly or indirectly. Without neutralization, the disposal of fluids comprises a heavy risk of polluting water sources and harming ocean life. Several vegetable-based cutting fluids provide a friendly environment and good working conditions to employees. In this research, food-grade emulsifiers and natural additives were combined with edible corn oil, which was employed as base oil to make cutting fluids completely biodegradable as a result. A new class of non-toxic cutting fluids was prepared and tested on SS 304 with coated TiAlN using a lathe machine. Since the base oil, additives, and emulsifiers all naturally possess antimicrobial qualities, microbial contamination is prevented for a considerable amount of time.