Surface layer properties of AISI 316L steel when turning under dry and with minimum quantity lubrication conditions

The mode of application of cutting liquids in cutting processes determines the properties of the produced surface, workpiece dimensional accuracy, and tool wear, as well as the physical phenomena which occur during cutting. However, their application causes many ecological and social problems connected with environmental pollution and operator health. Their elimination or significant reduction demands a comparable machined surface quality in dry cutting conditions or with a minimized quantity of lubricant. The current paper presents results of research into the cutting process, describing the topographical surface properties obtained in dry and with minimum quantity lubrication (MQL) turning of AISI 316L steel, which have been compared with those obtained after a conventional supply of emulsion. Previous investigations performed on the impact of cutting environment on machined surface quality were usually made in dry or wet conditions. The surface texture was analysed on the basis of the surface roughness...