Investigations into the improvement of the metal grinding process: application of a sub‐zero temperature cutting fluid

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effects of liquid carbon dioxide (LCO₂) on grinding of stainless steel.

Design/methodology/approach

A factorial experimental approach was used to compare the LCO₂'s performance against grinding under dry air and emulsion coolants.

Findings

The experimental results have a great use to practitioners. It was found that under special conditions, LCO₂ proves to be an alternative coolant for grinding of temperature sensitive materials. Furthermore, grinding under LCO₂ conditions produced the lowest tangential force, while the normal forces were close to the values found under emulsion fluid environment. When compared to grinding under dry conditions, LCO₂ coolant was successful in reducing the work piece temperatures. LCO₂ and emulsion conditions inhibit work hardening by reducing material deformation at the grinding zone.

Originality/value

The paper shows that sub‐zero temperature coolants have the ability to bring about lower grinding temperatures than what is typically achieved under conventional fluids.

Citation

Daisley, R.P. and Chowdary, B.V. (2012), "Investigations into the improvement of the metal grinding process: application of a sub‐zero temperature cutting fluid", Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, Vol. 64 No. 5, pp. 271-287. https://doi.org/10.1108/00368791211249665