Sustainable machining: selection of optimum turning conditions based on minimum energy considerations

The aim of the work reported in this paper was to develop a new model and methodology for optimising the energy footprint for a machined product. The total energy of machining a component by the turning process was modelled and optimised to derive an economic tool-life that satisfies the minimum energy footprint requirement. The work clearly identifies critical parameters in minimising energy use and hence reducing the energy cost and environmental footprint. Additionally, the paper explores and discusses the conflict and synergy between economical and environmental considerations as well as the effect of system boundaries in determining optimum machining conditions. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.