Enhancement of Tribological Performance via Innovative Tooling Design for Extrusion Processes

Due to the expense and negative environmental impact of commonly used conversion coating type lubricants a new method for reducing the friction in the extrusion process is desired. This paper investigates the possibility of modifying the die set to better the tribological conditions and reduce friction in the extrusion process. A novel design of extrusion tooling is proposed, in which the die set is segmented into three separate pieces, a punch, a wall die, and a bottom die. Additionally, the wall die is given the freedom to move along the axis of the punch and a high pressure lubricant is supplied to the interface between the wall and bottom dies. Preliminary tests of the segmented tooling show that, if the tribological conditions are severe enough, the forming load will decrease in comparison to a conventional extrusion system.