Applicability of nano-cutting fluids for enhanced cooling, low tool wear, and high tribological performance during machining—a review

In the machining domain, the most undesired effect is the ‘friction’, which leads to excessive heat generation and results in wear of the cutting tool. Also, the effect of friction has a significant negative impact on the mechanical properties of the machined components. To address these negative consequences, a novel category of Cutting Fluids (CFs) has been invented. These CFs include nanoparticles (NPs) in the conventional CFs, resulting in the emergence of a new variant called Nano Cutting Fluids (NCFs). Conventional CFs are categorized as either mineral oil based or taking sustainability into account it may be also vegetable oil based. NCFs involve the incorporation of NPs into CFs and this innovation has gained significant recognition and is seen as a revolutionary solution in the field of machining. The implementation of NCFs in prominent machining operations such as turning, drilling, milling, and grinding has resulted in improved surface quality of machined parts and increased lifespan of cutting tools. This is achieved by reducing cutting forces, enhancing heat transfer, and minimizing friction at the cutting zone. Using NCFs in Minimum Quantity Lubrication enhances the machining process, promotes environmental friendliness, ensures sustainability, and effefctively tackles the environmental concerns associated with conventional CFs. This review provides a thorough analysis of recent research papers on the use of NCFs in machining processes. It discusses the limitations of NCFs and explores potential opportunities for sustainable and enhanced machining operations in the future.