A recent study published in Advances in Manufacturing highlights significant developments in the application of nanobiolubricants for grinding operations. This technique demonstrates a practical and effective way to combine industrial performance with environmental sustainability.
Milestones in the development of MQL. Image Credit: TranSpread
Conventional grinding methods rely mostly on metalworking fluids, which are hazardous chemical mixtures that pose serious threats to human health and the environment. Demand for effective substitutes that deal with these concerns is rising as the industry moves toward sustainability.
A workable alternative is offered by nanobiolubricants, which improve biodegradable oils with nanoparticles. Their goal is to reduce environmental impact significantly while improving grinding performance.
These cutting-edge lubricants combine exceptional lubrication with environmental safety by enhancing the characteristics of fluids based on vegetable oil with nanoparticles. The study describes the use of high thermal conductivity and durable film-forming nanoparticles, such as silicon oxide and molybdenum disulfide, into biolubricants to significantly boost heat transfer rates and decrease friction at the grinding interface.
The physical integrity of grinding wheels is maintained by this synthesis of nanoparticles with biolubricants, which also averts the workpiece’s thermal deterioration, resulting in smoother operations and extending the lifespan of manufacturing tools. The study further emphasizes how these nanoparticles contribute to the formation of a physically and chemically durable lubrication layer that can endure harsh industrial grinding conditions.
Our research demonstrates that nanobiolubricants can drastically improve the thermal and friction dynamics at the grinding wheel-workpiece interface. This not only enhances the grinding performance but also significantly cuts down on energy consumption and environmental impact.
Dr Chang-He Li, Senior Researcher, Qingdao University of Technology
This technology conforms with global environmental goals and provides significant operational cost reductions, establishing a new benchmark for environmentally responsible industrial processes. As companies throughout the world look for greener alternatives, the use of nanobiolubricants might be a significant step toward establishing a more sustainable and responsible industrial landscape.
National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant Nos. 52205481, 51975305, and 52105457), Shandong Natural Science Foundation (Grant Nos. ZR2020ME158, ZR2023QE057, ZR2022QE028, ZR2021QE116, ZR2020KE027, and ZR2022QE159), Qingdao Science and Technology Planning Park Cultivation Plan (Grant No. 23-1-5-yqpy-17-qy), and China Postdoctoral Science Foundation (Grant No. 2021M701810) provided funding for the study.
Journal Reference:
Song, Y.- X., et. al. (2024) Nanobiolubricant grinding: a comprehensive review. Advances in Manufacturing. doi:10.1007/s40436-023-00477-7.