Research into water-based colloidal-graphite lubricants for forging of carbon steels and Ni-based alloys

The presented paper describes the topical problem in metal forging production. It deals with the choice of an optimal lubricant for forging of carbon steels and Ni-based alloys. Within the scope of the paper, the properties of several water-based colloidal-graphite lubricants were investigated. The physicochemical and technological properties of these lubricants are presented. It was found that physicochemical properties of lubricant compositions have an influence on friction coefficient value and as a result on die life during forging process. The ring compression method was used to estimate the friction coefficient value. Both mechanical press and screw press were used for the test. The comparative analysis of the investigated lubricants was carried out. The die life was estimated on the basis of statistics obtained with the help of an automated forging line. The practical recommendations were given to choose an optimal water-based colloidal-graphite lubricant for forging of carbon steel or Ni-based alloy.