Wetting behaviour of a Green cutting fluid (GCF); influence of surface roughness and surface energy of AA5052, Ti6Al4V and EN31

Abstract

Green Cutting fluids (GCFs) are biodegradable and eco-friendly alternatives that can be employed in metalworking processes. They facilitate better tool service life and surface quality by removing the heat built, reducing coefficients of friction at tool-chip, and tool-work interfaces, flushing away the chip and preventing the formation of Built-up edges (BUEs). Conventionally, mineral oil (MO) based CFs are used, which can cause serious health hazards in humans as well as negatively impact the environment. Sustainable Green-cutting fluids (GCF) were found to be the solution for reducing the issues raised by the MO-based cutting fluids. The GCF used in the present study was synthesized using coconut oil (Cocos Nucifera) as the base, which is a clean, bio-degradable and eco-friendly substitute for petroleum-based mineral oils. This work is focused on experimentally determining the effectiveness of green cutting fluids on surfaces of (Aluminium)AA5052, (Titanium alloy)Ti6AL4V and Steel(EN31) with various surface topographies. In order to do so, the wetting properties were measured by a stable contact angle θ between the solid–liquid surface and the vapour-liquid interface. Wettability responses from the roughened surfaces in the range of 0.06–2.1 µm was evaluated using a profilometer and contact angle goniometer. Results show that the wetting characteristics of GCF are comparable to that of the MO-based CFs and can be a viable alternative, thus reducing the adverse effects on the environment. In conclusion, this study shows the potential of GCFas an alternative to MO-based cutting fluids used in machining operations in the manufacturing industries.