A Review of Nanofluid Minimum Quantity Lubrication Technology Applications in Various Machining Processes

With the advancement of high-end manufacturing, the application of difficult-to-machine materials such as titanium alloys and superalloys is becoming increasingly widespread. Their inherent material properties pose challenges during machining, including high cutting temperatures, rapid tool wear, and difficulty in controlling surface quality. Nanofluid minimum quantity lubrication (NFMQL) technology, as an advanced lubrication and cooling method, enhances the thermal conductivity and lubricating properties of fluids by uniformly dispersing nanoparticles in the base oil. This paper reviews the preparation methods, advanced atomization techniques, and core mechanisms of NFMQL technology. It focuses on analyzing the effectiveness of this technology in four major machining processes, turning, milling, grinding, and drilling, for typical materials such as titanium alloys, steel, and superalloys. Compared to dry cutting, conventional MQL, and poured cooling, NFMQL reduces cutting forces/torque, cutting temperatures, tool wear, and surface roughness while improving material removal rates, machining accuracy, and surface integrity. This paper concludes by summarizing the technology’s advantages, current challenges, and future research directions.