An investigation of graphite nanoplatelets as lubricant in grinding

Cooling and lubrication are very critical to ensure workpiece quality in grinding due to the high friction and intense heat generation involved in the process. Liquid lubricants have traditionally been used in flood form or minimum quantity lubrication (MQL), raising however, major environmental and economic concerns. The focus of this study is to evaluate the performance of graphite nanoplatelets as a lubricant in surface grinding. The role of graphite's characteristics such as form, size and concentration; and the effect of the carrying medium and the graphite's application method are determined based on an experimental study. The results indicate that graphite nanoplatelets significantly reduce the grinding forces, specific energy, and improve surface finish during surface grinding of hardened D-2 tool steel. A comparison with results obtained in conventional MQL grinding is also provided. The proper selection of graphite, carrying medium and application method can lead to a low cost, nontoxic and simple alternative to solid lubrication or MQL grinding. (C) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.