Abstract
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 parameter Ra, neglecting other important surface features. For this reason surface hybrid roughness profile parameters and the Abbott–Firestone curve as well as the surface topography have been used in the present paper. The experimental results showed a considerable influence of the cutting zone environment and parameters on the cutting force, surface roughness, profile bearing ratio, and the occurrence of surface defects. The presented regression functions allow a calculation and prediction of surface roughness values as a function of cutting zone cooling and lubrication conditions and selected values of cutting parameters in the turning of AISI 316L steel.