A method and device for lubricating a workpiece-machine tool interface during a machining operation in which the temperature of lubricant atomized within a stream of air is substantially reduced. The preferred embodiment utilizes a vortex tube to accomplish the cooling and thereby provides an extremely simple device that greatly reduces the amount of heat generated in a machining operation. Reduced heat production decreases the temperatures to which both the workpiece and machine tool are subjected. Lower temperatures serve to extend the machine tool's service life while preserving the workpiece's metallurgy and consequently allows for increased machining rates.