Die life improvement

Hello,

Has anyone heard that a bigger inlet wire diameter increases/improves the life span of the die in the drawing process.

Hello hcgan76,

I have actually over-drafted copper rod on an AWG rod breakdown machine by using a drawing lubricant compatible grease in the grease box. I did not notice any increase in die life though.

What is the theory in your case? Better lubricity because of the grease? Please advise.

Regards
Peter J. Stewart-Hay
Principal
Stewart-Hay Associates
www.Stewart-Hay.com
519 641- 3212

Hi Peter,

The theory is that the bigger the inlet size, the slower is the speed entering the first die, with that the vibration of the wire in the die is lesser enabling better lubrication of the wire and die.
I am dealing with fine wire copper drawing, <0.1mm final size normally.
It is difficult for me to explain the theory too.
I was thinking there might be some other explanation that someone out there might have.
Thanks for your time.

Hello again hcgan76,

Have you seen a technical article on this because it sounds just too good to be true. However one never knows and it might be true. Please send me a technical reference.

Thank you.

Regards
Peter J. Stewart-Hay
Principal
Stewart-Hay Associates
www.Stewart-Hay.com
519 641- 3212

Hi,
We run 5/16" copper and the incoming dies are the standard T/C R5 with an angle of 16 - 18^, The only thing that I have changed was the final draft where it went to PCD with a 20 - 22^ angle and straight water, the only lubricant is from the previous draft soap in box and at appr. 50k - 100k we pull entire set and inspect and then I will repolish and return the dies