The process of forming metal has been in existence for many thousands of years. It was used in some form or fashion by all ancient cultures. While the metal forming techniques of yesteryear were effective yet primitive, the techniques of today are very high-tech. They include some very complex methods such as the stamping of metal, the drawing of wire, rolling metal, a process called hydroforming, and even hot and cold forming. All of these processes include incredibly high pressures and many of them also include very high temperatures as well. 

These processes do not work all by themselves. They include other factors such as special tools, dies, and fluids which have been specially designed. These fluids are also known as lubricants. All of these factors work in conjunction to make sure the end product is as good as it can be. The lubricants which are used can differ widely in individual characteristics due to the fact that the metal forming techniques also vary widely in their individual characteristics. 

There are a few specific reasons why any metal forming lubricants are used. These reasons include the removal of any scrap-metal, corrosion protection, cooling, and lubricity. The end-game goal for using lubricants is to ensure that all parts of the extractor work in conjunction to produce as much of the end products as possible. This work should be done with as little maintenance as possible and with as little degradation and excessive wear as possible. 

When the consideration is taken into account as to exactly what types of lubricants you will be using, there are many factors to consider. One of these factors to consider will be what the application method will be used will be. This also combines with timing and location to best determine what type of lubricant will be used. Experts recommend that there are also additional parameters which should be used to determine what type of lubricant will be used. Such external parameters may include such things as the type of metal which is being formed, the process of how the metal is being formed, the way the lubricant will be applied, the way the metal will be used after it done being formed and even the preference of the customer. By keeping all of these things in mind, the lubricant purchaser will know exactly what kind of lubricant should be purchased. 

Generally speaking, there are four main types of lubricants used in the process of metal forming. These include oil-based lubricants, synthetic lubricants, water-based lubricants, and dry lubricants. As stated above, the type chosen will rely solely on a wide array of individual needs which must be known before the lubricant is chosen. 

As you can see, a lot of thought must go into the lubricants used for metal forming. Only by choosing the correct type can the process go ahead as seamlessly as possible. This is why foreknowledge of the product should be ascertained before the lubricant purchase