We are trying to draw 8.00 mm mechanically descaled low carbon wire rod to 3.40 mm in 6 blocks at a speed of 10.5 m/sec. Our machine is overhead take-off type and equipped with AC motors. Block and die cooling are available but there is no speed control.

We made some tests with different lubricants but the wire is scratched in the last two dies. Some people claim that 3.40 mm is too big to be drawn at 10.5 m/sec. Is this true? If yes, is there any correlation / formula between the wire size and the drawing speed? We are expecting the comments of the interested colleagues.

Drawing speeds are based on practical experience on each machine and factory.

10.5m/sec could be a reasonable speed for the opperation as long as the following parameters are met.

1.- Combination of calcium and sodium based lubricants
2.- Adecuate die profile
3.- Good descaling system
4.- Use of presure dies
5.- Use of lubricant carriers
6.- Good cooling systems

The operation could beging at slower speed increasing gradually as the above mentioned parameters are solved.

Eduardo Anaya
Senior Consultant
INDEPA S.C.
Mexico City
Tel(011-52)555-407-7451
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