Slovenian researchers developed a novel supplying system, which allows the pre-mixing of liquid carbon dioxide and desired lubricant in precisely defined quantities and thus decreases CO2 and energy consumption. The research institution is looking for an industrial partner, active on the field of manufacturing processes; cutting processes; cutting of difficult-to-cut materials; cryogenic cutting to sign licence, manufacturing and/or research cooperation agreement.

Researchers from Slovenian research institution developed an innovative continuous liquid phase supply system of the cryogenic media (carbon dioxide) and the lubricant. Cryogenic machining is used to process hard materials, using either liquid nitrogen or carbon dioxide (CO2) as the coolant. 

Cutting processes result in high thermal and mechanical loads of cutting tools. As a sustainable alternative to conventional oil emulsions, carbon dioxide can be used as a coolant in cryogenic machining. However, carbon dioxide offers no lubrication, which is necessary for adequate cooling and lubrication effect during machining.  

The invention is a continuous liquid phase supply system of the cryogenic media (carbon dioxide) and the lubricant. The system enables pre-mixing of the lubricant with the carbon dioxide into the mixture lubricated carbon dioxide, thus providing cooling and lubrication when machining.    

The research institution is looking for an industrial partner active on the field of manufacturing processes and cutting processes; cutting of difficult-to-cut metal materials and cryogenic cutting to sign licence, manufacturing and/or research cooperation agreement in EU and beyond. 

The advantage of this invention is the possibility of a local supply of a fully liquid phase (with lubricant and consequently a higher lubricating effect) of carbon dioxide, with smaller volume flows.

Other advantages of the invention are:
•	better cooling and lubricating effect,
•	more localized supply of liquid carbon dioxide,
•	economical usage of liquid carbon dioxide (low consumption),
•	improving the performance of the cutting process (longer tool life);
•	improving product performance (improved integrity of the treated surface).

The researchers are searching an industrial partner active on the field of manufacturing processes and cutting processes; cutting of difficult-to-cut metal materials and cryogenic cutting to sign licence, manufacturing and/or research cooperation agreement in EU and beyond.