Economical and Ecological Cryogenic Machining

Abstract

To eliminate health and environmental problems caused by using conventional cutting fluid in the machining industry, a new economical and practical approach to cryogenic machining technology was developed. Using micro nozzle jetting to the cutting point locally, this approach minimizes the amount of liquid consumption to levels at which nitrogen costs less than conventional cutting fluid. It reduces tool wear and lengthens tool life up to five times, thereby allowing for high-speed cutting, improving productivity and reducing overall production cost. In addition, this approach reduces the frictional force, improves chip breaking, eliminates build-up edge, and improves surface quality. This paper discloses the new cryogenic machining approach, and assesses the econom- ics of the process in comparison with state-of-the-art conventional emulsion cooling.