A Theoretical Model of Micro-Pool Lubrication in Metal Forming

A model of a secondary hydrodynamic lubrication mechanism, which is called micro-pool or micro-plasto hydrodynamic lubrication, has been developed. It shows that, with sufficiently high viscosity and sliding speed, the lubricant trapped in the micro-pools between the tool and workpiece can be drawn into the interface. The friction force is either increased or decreased, depending on the viscosity and sliding speed. Without bulk stretching, the product of the lubricant viscosity and sliding velocity can be used as an index to indicate whether or not micro-pool lubrication will occur. Stretching the workpiece may make a strong influence not only on the thickness of the permeating film but also on the asperity contact area.