How Polished Carbide Surfaces Improve Deep Drawing Results

Introduction

In deep drawing, the die surface directly affects metal flow, part quality, and die life. Polished tungsten carbide surfaces have become the standard for high-quality drawn parts.

Friction Reduction

Polished carbide surfaces reduce friction between the die and workpiece material. Lower friction means less force required for drawing, less heat generation, and reduced risk of tearing or wrinkling.

Galling Prevention

When die surfaces are rough, workpiece material can weld to the die, causing galling and scratches on finished parts. Mirror-polished carbide surfaces prevent material pickup, even when drawing aluminum or stainless steel.

Surface Finish Standards

Deep drawing dies are typically polished to Ra 0.1 or better. Lapped surfaces may reach Ra 0.02. The drawing radius and entry angle must also be polished to ensure smooth material flow.

Extended Die Life

Polished surfaces wear more slowly because they experience less abrasive friction. This means dies stay in service longer between regrinds and maintain consistent part dimensions.

Better Part Appearance

Parts drawn with polished carbide dies have smooth, scratch-free surfaces. This eliminates secondary polishing operations and improves customer satisfaction.

Conclusion

Investing in polished carbide die surfaces pays back through better part quality, longer die life, and reduced production costs. It is essential for high-quality deep drawing operations.

References

GB/T 7714: GUPTA R, SONG J. Powder metallurgy processing and mechanical properties of cemented tungsten carbide composites[J]. International Journal of Refractory Metals and Hard Materials, 2020, 91: 105246.

APA 7th: Gupta, R., & Song, J. (2020). Powder metallurgy processing and mechanical properties of cemented tungsten carbide composites.

MLA 9th: Gupta, R., and J. Song. "Powder Metallurgy Processing and Mechanical Properties of Cemented Tungsten Carbide Composites."