Experimental investigations into tribological and machining characteristics of Al2O3 and ZrO dispersed Jatropha oil-based nanofluids

• Published in: Journal of the Brazilian Society of Mechanical Sciences and Engineering 2022-08, Vol.44 (8), Article 345
• Main Authors: Singh, Ramandeep, Sharma, Varun
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Aluminum oxide; Atomizing; Biodegradability; Coefficient of friction; Corrosion potential; Corrosion prevention; Cutting force; Dispersion; Engineering; Friction; Friction reduction; Hastelloy (trademark); Lubricants; Machining; Mechanical Engineering; Nanofluids; Nanoparticles; Segmentation; Surface properties; Surface roughness; Technical Paper; Thermomechanical treatment; Tool wear; Tribology; Tungsten carbide; Vegetable oils; Zeta potential
• ISSN: 1678-5878; 1806-3691
• DOI: 10.1007/s40430-022-03661-1

Machining processes involve thermo-mechanical loading, which influences the tool wear and surface quality. Nano lubricants are effective in reducing the friction between tool-work contact surfaces. However, nanofluids prepared with plant-based oils are more desirable in view of ecological concerns. The present work aims to investigate the machining and tribological performance of novel vegetable oil-based nanofluid. Al 2 O 3 and ZrO nanoparticles have been dispersed in Jatropha oil to develop biodegradable nanofluids and are investigated for their dispersion stability and anti-corrosion characteristics. The prepared nanofluids have been found to be stable for 48 h via UV–vis and zeta potential studies. The anti-corrosion capability of the nanofluids has been confirmed for their suitability in a corrosive environment. Tribological characteristics of the nanofluids have been investigated using a pin-on-disc wear test with Hastelloy C-276 and tungsten carbide mating pair. The experimental findings have shown a noticeable reduction in the coefficient of friction and wear loss. The coefficient of friction has been reduced by 83.3%, 85%, 80%, and 81.6% using JO, JO + 0.5% Al 2 O 3 , JO + 0.5% ZrO, and JO + 0.5% Al 2 O 3  + 0.5% ZrO respectively as compared to dry condition. Furthermore, wear loss has been decreased by 51.7%, 72.3%, 61.6% and 73.1% using JO, JO + 0.5% Al 2 O 3 , JO + 0.5% ZrO and JO + 0.5% Al 2 O 3  + 0.5% ZrO in comparison with dry condition. Also, the machining performance of nanofluids has shown a significant decrease in cutting forces and surface roughness. The ultrasonically produced atomized mist of nanofluids has resulted in a decrease in tool wear and produces chip segmentation. The prepared unitary and hybrid nanofluids have shown an immense potential to address the environmental concerns of machining difficult-to-cut materials. Graphical abstract