Cryogenic Machining through the Spindle and Tool for Improved Machining Process Performance and Sustainability: Pt. II, Sustainability Performance Study

Cryogenic machining is considered a sustainable alternative to machining with flood cooling application. This paper describes a case study about the production of a titanium alloy part which involves multiple milling processes. It draws comparisons between conventional flood cooling and cryogenic machining. Factors such as productivity and cost, and total life-cycle sustainability performance such as energy consumption and emissions are evaluated. It is shown that cryogenic machining results in a comprehensive advantage in most of these aspects. The paper provides an example of how to assess the manufacturing sustainability performance gains through a technology improvement. It also points out potential directions to consider when optimizing the process for optimal sustainability performance.