Metalforming is a process in which metal is manipulated to create a new shape. Processes used for metal forming include stamping, drawing, heading, forging, extruding, and roll forming. All modes of lubrication can be important in these applications. Hydrodynamic lubrication improves with increasing viscosity. Boundary lubrication is provided by polar additives like fatty acids and esters. And extreme pressure lubrication can be obtained with additives that chemically react with the metal surface like certain sulfurized and chlorinated materials.
Straight oils are not water extendable, although they can be cut with other oils. Soluble oils and Synthetics are all water-extendable products which provide excellent cooling and superior cleanability over straight oil products wherever they can be used. Factors to consider in choosing a metalforming lubricant include: Metal type, operation, type of tooling, application method, shipping/storage conditions, and subsequent processes.
Metal
A metal's hardness, toughness, and adhesiveness play key roles in it's
drawability. Other factors include the blank thickness, surface finish and
cleanliness of the part or sheet.
Operation
The speed of operation and severity of metal flow are the major factors in
determining the type and level of lubrication for a given application. Also, if
progressive dies are used, carry-through of the fluid, based on its viscosity
and clingability may be important.
Tooling
Common tool materials include tool steel, carbide and coated carbide. In
the case of carbide, inhibitors may be needed to prevent excessive leaching
of the cobalt binder.
Application
The lubricant can be applied by spray, dip, swab, flow or roller coat. The
desired method will be a factor in choosing the proper viscosity, volatility,
and type of fluid.
Conditions
Storage and shipping conditions will determine the degree of corrosion
protection required for the lubricant if it remains on the part. Also, long
storage periods may indicate the need for additives to prevent oxidation of
the film.
Next Process
Subsequent processes or coatings will often dictate the required
compatibility or cleanability of the metalforming lubricant. This is especially
true if the part will be coated with paint or an adhesive.
Process Fluids Incorporated offers a full line of technically advanced products. Please review the appropriate product data sheet for specific use recommendations.
Solutions | |
2100-F | Inverse soluble/extreme pressure synthetic for ferrous alloys. |
2200 | Inverse soluble/extreme pressure heavy duty synthetic for ferrous alloys. |
Emulsions | |
2569 | Heavy duty extreme pressure/boundary soluble. |
2580 | Chlorine free, heavy duty soluble. |
2799 | Heavy duty synthetic emulsion for drawing and stamping. |
2950 | Heavy duty extreme pressure emulsifiable oil. |
Straight Oils | |
2300 | Sulfur/Chlorine free drawing and stamping oil. |
2395 | Heavy duty extreme pressure drawing and stamping oil. |
2600 | Light duty oil with excellent corrosion protection. |
2800 | Light duty stamping fluid. |
2900 | Heavy duty washable drawing oil. |
Process Fluids also offers an extensive range of cleaners, corrosion preventives, machining & grinding fluids, and quenching fluids. Please consult your local representative for additional information.