The Lubricity Analysis of Cutting Fluid Emulsions

The new generation of cutting fluids should have some characteristics, such as low toxicity and biodegradability. A bio-cutting fluid emulsion are an excellent option because they present those properties, as well as good mechanical performance. The present study aims to investigate the lubricity of O/W emulsions (cutting fluid emulsion), varying the concentration of anionic surfactant (1%, 2.5% and 5%) and epoxidized oil (5%, 10%, 15%, 20% e 25%). A sunflower oil was chemically modified by epoxidation reaction, then its viscosity, iodine and oxirane index, density, and acidity were characterized. The performances of the emulsions were evaluated using a tribometer HFRR (High Frequency Reciprocating Rig), under hydrodynamic lubrication conditions. The ball wear scars were analyzed using an optical microscopy. The results showed that a low concentration of surfactant promote friction and wear reduction. Based on the tribological performance, the emulsions with 5% and 10% of epoxidized oil are more suitable.