Influence of Graphene Nanosheets on Thermo-Physical and Tribological Properties of Sustainable Cutting Fluids for MQL Application in Machining Processes

Abstract

This study investigates the effects of applying two vegetable and one mineral-based cutting fluids with 0.05 %wt and 0.1 %wt dispersion of graphene sheets on the tribosystem generated at the interface between the cemented carbide tool and the AISI 1045 steel workpiece. The fluids are firstly characterized (viscosity, thermal conductivity and diffusivity, and wettability) and tested in reciprocating and ramp milling tests. The results show that the graphene sheets alter the thermo-physical and tribological properties of the cutting fluids; in this case, vegetable-based cutting fluids, even in minimum quantities and with graphene nanoparticles, have a high potential for increasing the efficiency and sustainability of the milling process.