A Guide to Lubricant Selection by Material

In metal forming, lubricants do more than simply reduce friction between the die and the workpiece—they are a key factor that determines product quality, tool life, and productivity. However, a single lubricant cannot deliver the best results for all materials.

Aluminum, stainless steel, and copper each have unique characteristics and forming challenges, requiring different lubricant properties. This article provides a material-specific guide to selecting the optimal forming oil.

1. Aluminum – Anti-Galling and Cleanliness Are Crucial

Aluminum is highly ductile but prone to galling (adhesive wear) during forming, where material sticks to the die surface.
Forming oils for aluminum should have:

• Anti-galling performance: Includes additives that prevent adhesion between tool and workpiece
• Low viscosity: Ensures smooth flow, high surface finish, and minimal residue
• Excellent cleanliness: Leaves little residue, making it suitable for post-treatments such as painting or anodizing

Recommended: Chlorine-free, low-viscosity oils / water-soluble lubricants are also widely used

2. Stainless Steel – High Load Capacity and Heat Resistance

Stainless steel has high strength and strain hardening properties, which result in greater forming resistance and heat generation.
Forming oils for stainless steel must offer:

• Extreme pressure performance: EP additives to prevent wear and tool damage
• Thermal stability: Stable lubrication films under high temperatures
• Corrosion protection: Prevents reaction with chromium in stainless steel

Recommended: High-viscosity oils with advanced EP additives

3. Copper and Brass – Preventing Stains and Ensuring Clean Surfaces

Copper and brass have good formability, but they are susceptible to chemical reactions leading to tarnishing or corrosion.
Forming oils for copper alloys should provide:

• Non-reactive additives: Avoid sulfur- or chlorine-based additives that can cause staining
• Superior detergency: Keeps surfaces clean for downstream processes such as soldering or plating
• Oxidation stability: Prevents surface discoloration and degradation

Recommended: Sulfur-free, chlorine-free, clean-forming oils

Conclusion – Tailored Selection Is the Key

• Aluminum → Focus on anti-galling & cleanliness
• Stainless steel → Ensure high-load lubrication & heat resistance
• Copper/Brass → Prioritize stain prevention & detergency

Ultimately, understanding the unique characteristics of each material and selecting the right lubricant is the key to ensuring forming quality, productivity, and tool life.

The Promise of Dyna

At Dyna, we provide forming oil solutions optimized for different materials such as aluminum, stainless steel, and copper.
With tailored lubrication technology, we support our customers’ productivity and competitiveness, serving as a trusted partner in solving on-site challenges.

Dyna Co., Ltd.
Industrial Lubricant Solution
E-Mail : dyna@dynachem.co.kr
Web : dyna.co.kr/en/