Preparation, Characterization, and Lubrication Performances of Water-Based Nanolubricant for Micro Rolling Strips

Water-based nanolubricants are widely used in rolling processes due to their unique characteristics. As a common additive, nanoparticles could significantly improve the tribological properties of the lubricant. However, the effect of the physical properties of the particles on the anti-friction behavior is unclear. In this study, the effect of Fe₃O₄ nanoparticles as an additive for the prepared lubricant is studied. The tribological properties of Fe₃O₄ water-based nanolubricant are examined using a tribometer and a scratch meter. The absorption energy is calculated using the molecular dynamic simulation method, and the best parameters for the preparation of the nanolubricant are obtained. The developed nanolubricant is used in the rolling process. The results show that the processing quality of samples is promoted and the tribological properties of water-based lubricant can be significantly promoted by an Fe₃O₄ nanoparticle additive. An economical and environmentally friendly method is presented through which the water-based Fe₃O₄ nanolubricant can be prepared for the replacement of oil-based lubricant in cold rolling strips.