Application of the modified similarity-based method for cutting fluid selection

摘要

An enormous amount of heat is released at the contact surface during machining of a component/partdue to friction, rubbing action and cutting forces generated. Cutting fluids are generally applied to provide lubrication and cooling at the tool and workpiece interface. They also play a beneficial role in machining operations, and enhance job shop’s productivity, tool life and quality of the finished parts/products. In addition to these, they act as an important contributor in optimizing a machining operation. However, a cutting fluid suitable for a particular machining requirement may not be equally good for other applications and hence, there is a need for selection of the appropriate type of cutting fluid with a view to facilitate superlative and uncomplicated machining operation. Several factors, such as material ofthe cutting tool, operator’s safety, compatibility with the machine tool, reliability and rancidity of the cutting fluid, and cost may all combine to limit the effectiveness or applicability of a cutting fluid. Therefore, the present study explores the potentiality of a modified similarity-based method, which is a multi-criteria decision making tool, in solving cutting fluid selection problems. To illustrate the procedural steps of this method, two real time problems are solved. The results obtained highly corroborate with the opinions of the experts in the related field, demonstrating the applicability of the said method.