<p>In order to clarify the synergistic effect of different nanoparticles and ultrasonic vibration on the wear resistance of the turning interface, carbon nanotubes (CNTs), graphene nanosheets and Al₂O₃ nanofluid minimum quantity lubrication (NMQL) were used in the ultrasonic vibration-assisted turning (UVAT) experiment. The influence of nanoparticle structures and dimensions on cutting force, cutting force ratio, and tool wear was systematically investigated. Additionally, molecular dynamics simulations were applied to analyze the motion and deformation of nanoparticles at the UVAT interface, thereby uncovering the underlying anti-wear mechanisms. The results show that the instantaneous contact-component behavior of the ultrasonic vibration tool helps the nanoparticles enter the cutting interface and form a bearing-like effect, which makes the tool-chip tend to rolling contact. Notably, the ultrasonic vibration drove parallel or inclined CNTs to change direction on the surface of the workpiece and produce ‘bearing-like’ effect. However, the brief contact duration between the ultrasonically vibrated tool and the workpiece restricted the interlayer shear slip of graphene nanosheets. Consequently, carbon nanotubes exhibited superior anti-wear performance compared to graphene nanosheets during the UVAT process. In addition, the size of nanoparticles has a significant effect on the wear resistance of the cutting interface. Longer carbon nanotubes and more layers of graphene sheets can significantly improve the anti-wear effect. This study provides a theoretical basis for the application of NMQL in UVAT.</p>