MQL assisted cleaner machining using PVD TiAlN coated carbide insert: Comparative assessment

Abstract

Minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) is an alternative over dry machining due to economic and ecological sustainability. In the current research, a comparative investigation has been carried out on machinability and surface integrity aspects of hardened AISI 4340 steel using PVD TiAlN coated carbide inserts during dry and MQL assisted hard turning. Under the dry condition, turned surface has been encountered tensile residual stress whereas compressive residual stress has been generated under MQL condition. Formation of a white layer on the chip has not been experienced under both conditions. Cutting speed predominantly influences tool wear and feed influences more on surface roughness. Dimensional deviation and auxiliary flank wear have been significantly reduced under MQL condition with 16.21% cost savings. An improvement in machinability characteristics and surface integrity under MQL cutting has been noticed compared to dry with favorable interaction and contribute towards cleaner machining process. This may be adopted in machining shop floor as a good replacement over dry machining.