A review on future implementation of cryogenic machining in manufacturing industry

Cryogenic machining is the use of a cryogen medium, an alternative to conventional flood cooling used in material cutting operations. The use of cryogenic machining could improve the functional performance of machined parts, through engineered surface integrity. The state of the art of cryogenic machining, benefits, and applications have been reviewed first. It is obvious that cryogenic research to date has focused on the hard-to-cut materials such as titanium, Inconel 718 and AISI 52100 but few studies were carried out on hardened steel. The overall objective of this review is to advance the state of art of cryogenic machining in terms of machinability and thus complement available limited literature. Cryogenic machining can increase machinability, in terms of its effects on tool life, cutting force, chip formation, and surface integrity. In conclusion, cryogenic application in manufacturing processes could possibly be used as an enhancement method for surface hardening when using appropriate cutting conditions, thus avoiding expensive and time-consuming post-treatment processes.