Investigating submicron particle generation in machining: The role of coolants and operational conditions
Iñigo RODRIGUEZ, Gregor FILIPIČ, Mikel CUESTA, Gorka ORTIZ-DE-ZARATE, Maja REMŠKAR, Franci PUŠAVEC, Pedro J. ARRAZOLA
Abstract. Submicron particles in industrial environments pose significant health risks due to their ability to penetrate deep into the lungs, leading to respiratory and long-term health effects. The novelty of this study lies in its focus on submicron (< 1 µm) particle generation in machining environments, an area that has received little attention compared to measuring larger particle sizes (2.5 to 10 µm). Particle emissions were analysed under different cooling/lubrication methods, spindle speeds, and mist extraction conditions. Conventional emulsions were compared with alternative coolants using liquid carbon dioxide (LCO₂) and LCO₂+MQL under varying operational parameters. Results indicate that LCO₂+MQL produces the highest particle concentrations, particularly at high spindle speeds, whereas LCO₂ achieves near-background air quality. Mist extraction significantly reduces exposure, emphasizing the need for proper coolant selection and ventilation.
Keywords
Occupational Health, Air Quality, Submicron Particles, Sustainable Coolants
Published online 5/7/2025, 9 pages
Copyright © 2025 by the author(s)
Published under license by Materials Research Forum LLC., Millersville PA, USA
Citation: Iñigo RODRIGUEZ, Gregor FILIPIČ, Mikel CUESTA, Gorka ORTIZ-DE-ZARATE, Maja REMŠKAR, Franci PUŠAVEC, Pedro J. ARRAZOLA, Investigating submicron particle generation in machining: The role of coolants and operational conditions, Materials Research Proceedings, Vol. 54, pp 1757-1765, 2025
DOI: https://doi.org/10.21741/9781644903599-189
The article was published as article 189 of the book Material Forming
Content from this work may be used under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 license. Any further distribution of this work must maintain attribution to the author(s) and the title of the work, journal citation and DOI.
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