Evaluating application potentiality of unconventional fluids for grinding Ti-6Al-4V using alumina wheel

Conventional metalworking fluids carry an acute threat to the environment as these produce a hazardous ambiance. Furthermore, due to their excessive use and imprudent disposal, the risk of environmental pollution exaggerates. The present article is aimed at finding some alternative potential coolants to be applied in small quantity lubrication (SQL) mode for grinding of difficult-to-machine (DTM) material, titanium alloys, which could effectively replace the conventional metalworking fluids while ensuring minimal waste of the coolant. Three unconventional environmentally safe coolants viz. alkaline soap water, sodium nitrite, and propylene glycol are applied in SQL mode while grinding Ti-6Al-4V. Comparative performance analyses of these cutting fluids have been adjudicated, considering responses of force required for material removal, substrate roughness, grinding ratio, and SEM micrographs of chips and ground surface. The results reveal that the environment-friendly unconventional fluids perform better than the conventional Blasocut fluid and the most satisfactory operations are observed under propylene glycol environment on the basis of the relevant parameters and operating range considered herein.