In machining, what does a lubricant do?

In machining, the primary role of a lubricant is to reduce wear and tear on machines. Lubricants create a thin film that separates the cutting tool from the workpiece, thereby minimizing friction between them. This reduction in friction helps to decrease the amount of heat generated during the cutting process, which not only prolongs the life of the cutting tool but also prevents damage to both the tool and the workpiece.

By decreasing wear, lubricants help maintain the precision of cuts over time, ensuring consistent dimensions and quality in the machined parts. They also play a critical role in removing debris created during machining, which can contribute to tool wear if not managed properly. While various lubricants can offer secondary benefits, such as reducing heat or corrosion, their fundamental function in machining revolves around wear reduction.