A comprehensive exploration of minimum quantity lubrication in machining process

Minimal Quantity Lubrication (MQL) has received a lot of interest in the machining processes because of its potential and environmental benefits. Transitioning from traditional flood cooling technologies to MQL has various advantages, including lower heat generation and better chip evacuation. The MQL approach has shown to be effective since it conforms with “green machining” criteria. The current study reviews significant research publications on the usage of cutting fluids and fluids based on nanofluids, as well as mineral and vegetable oils for various machining operations, including drilling, turning, milling and grinding. The suitability of the MQL technique has been demonstrated as it aligns with the requirements of environmentally friendly machining. The paper elucidates the mechanism behind the MQL technique and systematically explores its impact on the performance parameters of diverse machining processes. The study gives a detailed investigation of MQL in terms of its impact on cutting performance, tool life, and surface finish. Numerous experimental studies indicate that employing MQL results in surface quality superior to dry machining and comparable to that achieved with wet machining. Furthermore, the application of MQL reduces cutting forces, cutting zone temperature, tool wear, and friction coefficient when compared to both dry and wet machining. Consequently, the MQL technique has demonstrated its viability as a feasible alternative to flood lubrication under similar performance parameters.