Performance evaluation of solid lubricants in terms of machining parameters in turning

High speed machining of steel inherently generates large cutting temperatures, which not only reduce tool life but also impair the product quality. Application of cutting fluids influences the performance of machining because of its lubrication and cooling actions. Due to the hazards posed by conventional cutting fluids to ecology and health of the workers, there is a greater need to identify eco-friendly and user-friendly alternatives. Modern tribology has facilitated the use of effective unconventional methods like dry cutting, cryogenic cooling, minimum quantity lubrication and the use of solid lubricants. The present work features a specific study on the application of a solid lubricant mixture like Graphite in SAE 40 oil and boric acid in SAE 40 oil in turning of EN8 steel. Experimental results are encouraging with reduction in tool wear and surface roughness as compared to dry and wet machining. (c) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.