Effect of high-pressure coolant on machining performance

Machining of hardened steel and other difficult-to-cut materials requires instant heat transfer from the cutting edge of the tool to improve tool life. Supply of high-volume and high-pressure coolant often provides the best answer. This paper deals with an experimental investigation on the effect of high-pressure coolant on workpiece hardness, comparing it with dry cut and conventional coolant. The effectiveness of high-pressure coolant is evaluated in terms of improvement of surface finish, reduction in tool wear and cutting forces, and control of chip shape. It is found that the cutting force is reduced, surface finish improved, and chip width is reduced with the use of high-pressure coolant.