Investigation on the lubrication performance of different carbon nanoparticles for titanium alloy

Purpose This study aims to develop a high-performance nanofluid that can be used in titanium alloys machining. Titanium alloys are difficult-to-cut materials and difficult to be lubricated. This study explored the lubrication performance of various carbon nanoparticles in water-based lubricants for titanium alloys. Design/methodology/approach The lubricating and antiwear properties of the developed cutting fluid were tested by a tribo-tester. The lubricant performance was evaluated through friction coefficient, wear volume and surface quality. The lubrication mechanism was analyzed through surface morphology, wettability and bonding analysis. Findings The lubricating performance of four kinds of carbon nanoparticles on titanium alloys was tested and the results showed that single-layer graphene had the smallest COF and wear volume. The interaction between nanoparticles and debris was an important factor that influenced the lubrication performance of nanoparticles for titanium alloy. Moreover, the hybrid nanofluid with graphene and spherical graphite in a ratio of 1:2 achieved a balance between lubricating performance and price, making it the optimal choice. Practical implications The developed lubricant containing carbon nanoparticles that can lubricate titanium alloys effectively has great potential in machining titanium alloy as a high-performance cutting fluid in the future. Originality/value This paper fulfills an identified need for water-based lubricant for titanium alloys considering the bad tribological properties. Peer review The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-04-2024-0124/