Using Dry Ice as a Coolant for Cutting Tools

Particles of dry ice (frozen carbon dioxide) entrained in gas flows would be used during machining to cool cutting tools and workpieces, according to a proposal. Solid carbon dioxide particles that impinge on a tool and workpiece would absorb heat generated in the cutting process. The absorbed heat would cause the particles to vaporize. The consequent outflow of cold carbon dioxide gas would remove cutting debris and would provide additional cooling.