Tribological action and cutting performance of MQL media in machining of aluminum

The tribological action of MQL media and atmospheric carrier gases was investigated using controlled atmosphere cutting apparatus. The investigation demonstrated their adsorption behavior onto metal surfaces was in close connection with the cutting performance of a lubricant synthetic ester and carrier gases in practical MQL machining. In particular, the presence of oxygen resulted in unfavorable cutting phenomena in MQL machining of aluminum. A unique technique of MQL media treatment was further proposed to prepare oil mist sprays containing microdroplets of water. This advanced technique provided some possibilities of improving the tribological action of MQL media in machining of aluminum.