Investigation of vegetable-based hybrid nanofluids on machining performance in MQL turning

Introduction. Vegetable-based hybrid nanofluids are increasingly important in the context of Minimum Quantity Lubrication (MQL) turning due to its enhanced lubrication properties and environmental benefits. These nanofluids, which typically combine vegetable oils with nanoparticles like graphite or titanium dioxide, improve machining performance by reducing friction and cutting forces, leading to better surface finish and tool life. The purpose of the work. Coated carbide tools are widely used for machining SS 304 stainless steel due to its wear resistance and high temperature resistance. The purpose of the current work is to evaluate the machining performance of SS 304 steel under different concentrations of hybrid nanofluids. The methods of investigation. In this study, an attempt was made to use copper oxide/aluminum oxide (CuO/Al2O3) hybrid nanoparticles mixed with corn oil. A total of six hybrid cutting fluids with 100 ml volume and different mass concentration (0.4 %, 0.8 %, 1.2 %, 1.6 %, 2 %, and 2.4 %) were developed and its performance on SS 304 steel was investigated. Results and discussion. The finding revealed that with an increase in the mass concentration, the thermophysical properties improve. In addition, it is shown that friction decreases with an increase in the particle concentration to 1.6 wt. %. At a concentration of 1.6 wt. % of CuO/Al2O3 hybrid cutting nanofluid showed the best performance characteristics. This study also provides a comparison with dry turning. The highest tool wear was observed in dry turning, followed by turning using corn oil. A 32 % reduction in cutting force is observed. The surface roughness when using CuO/Al2O3 hybrid cutting nanofluid is reduced by 27.7 %. However, when using a hybrid nanofluid (2.4 % of CuO/Al2O3), low tool wear is observed. In this study, the possibility of using vegetable-based hybrid nanofluids for metal turning with a minimum amount of lubricant is considered.