Experimental investigation of graphene nanoplatelets-based minimum quantity lubrication in grinding Inconel 718

The main objective of this work is to assess the performance of graphene nanoplatelets-based cutting fluid in minimum quantity lubrication grinding of Inconel 718. Nanocutting fluids with varying concentrations and different specific surface areas of graphene nanoplatelets were developed, and basic properties like viscosity and thermal conductivity were evaluated at different temperatures. The role of graphene nanoplatelets concentration and specific surface area is investigated by comparing force generated during grinding, surface roughness, grinding temperature, grinding coefficient and specific grinding energy. The experimental results show that graphene nanoplatelets significantly lower the grinding force, temperature, specific grinding energy and roughness of the finished surface. Nanocutting fluid with 0.3 wt% graphene nanoplatelets and 750 mm(2)/g was found effectively improved the surface quality of the Inconel 718 compared to dry grinding and minimum quantity lubrication grinding with soluble oil.