Effects and mechanisms in minimal quantity lubrication machining of an aluminum alloy

Effects and mechanisms in minimal quantity lubrication are investigated by use of an intermittent turning process. Especially a difference between minimal quantity lubrication (MQL) and NIQL with water is inspected in detail to elucidate boundary film behaviour on the rake face. In order to obtain a good cutting performance by MQL it is considered that two things are needed: (1) an appropriate lubricant, such as a synthetic ester, to form a strong boundary film and (2) a chilling effect to sustain strength of the boundary film. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.