Implementation and optimization of minimum quantity lubrication for machining LM4 aluminium alloy. (2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Subramanian, M.; Balakrishnan, S.; Vinoth Babu, N.; Hariharan, V.; Balasubramanian, T.
• Is Part Of: Materials today. Volume 44:Part 1(2021)
• Page Start: 1635
• Page End: 1642
• Publication Date: 2021
• Subjects: Minimum quantity lubrication -- Surface roughness -- Coolant flow rate -- Taguchi analysis -- Grey relational analysis; Materials science -- Congresses -- Periodicals; 620.1
• DOI: 10.1016/j.matpr.2020.11.820
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2214-7853

Abstract

Abstract: The cooling method employed in machining processes plays a vital role in the surface quality and the efficiency of the process. Dry machining is being performed for flat milling operation on LM-4 alloy. This has resulted in poor surface roughness and increased tool wear rate. The other type of cooling installed in the industry is the flood coolant method which uses enormous coolant flow rate. Hence the scope of our project is to enhance the surface finish with reduced coolant flow rate and tool wear rate by introducing the Minimum Quantity Lubrication system which sprays a mixture of compressed air and lubricant in a form of mist at the point of operation i.e. tool workpiece interface. The optimized air pressure, siphon height and coolant concentration ratio are determined based on the results obtained from the surface roughness tests and the coolant flow rate measurements. Both single objective and multi objective optimization are done with the help of Taguchi analysis and Grey relational analysis respectively. Finally, this optimized MQL system is implemented in the Industry and its results are found to be in tune with our project outcome.