Mitigating tribological challenges in machining additively manufactured stainless steel with cryogenic-MQL hybrid technology

Additively manufactured steel components are gaining prominence due to their design versatility, reduced material waste, and rapid prototyping advantages. However, it is necessary to subject these parts to additional machining operations regularly because of the inherent limitations of laser-based procedures in metal additive manufacturing. This research investigates the surface mechanisms and selected tool wear indicators following the machining of additively manufactured 316 L stainless steel under different cooling conditions. Through comprehensive investigation, the hybrid cooling technique is evaluated and compared with dry and cryogenic conditions. The results demonstrated that the hybrid conditionreduces flank wear (Vb) by 54–56% and 29–34%, respectively, compared to dry and cryogenic cutting strategies, establishing it as a promising solution for machining additively manufactured steel components in aerospace applications. However, the microhardness on the machined surface is highest under cryogenic cooling in relation to the hybrid cutting strategy.