TRIBOLOGY OF HOT METAL-FORMING

Many aspects of the tribology of hot metal forming are poorly understo od. This leads to difficulties when modelling the forming operations t o develop process improvements. It also handicaps the development of n ew tool materials, since the operating conditions with which they will have to cope are not fully described. Several key issues in friction, heat transfer, lubrication, wear and fatigue are discussed. This is a n area of tribology with many opportunities for research. It is conclu ded that progress will be made through a combination of techniques, in cluding laboratory simulation, computer modelling and industrial trial s. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.