Study of the granulometric composition and iron content in the dry wire drawing grease during operation

Abstract

The results of studying granulometric composition and iron content in wire dry drawing grease are presented. The goal of the study is to estimate the possibility of extending a period of full replacement of grease in rough and intermediate wire drawing. Iron gets into the grease upon drawing both as a part of residual scale oxides and directly from the wire surface. Moreover, a gradual grinding of the grease also degrades the quality of drawing. The grease quality was estimated by two parameters: particle size distribution and iron content. The mass fraction of iron in the dry grease was determined using a specially developed technique. Iron compounds were first dissolved with hydrochloric acid and then separated from fatty acids. The iron content was measured using an optical emission spectrometer with inductively coupled plasma. The granulometric composition was determined by sieving. Test samples were taken from new original grease and from the soap-boxes of medium and coarse drawing machines. The dynamics of iron accumulation and change in the particle size distribution of the grease in the process of wire drawing were assessed proceeding from the results of measurements. The frequency of complete replacement of grease in soap-boxes was evaluated from the view point of the rational use without compromising the production effectiveness of drawing. Recommendations are given regarding decrease in the frequency of partial replacement of the grease in soap boxes in blocks N 4 - 6 in coarse drawing machines and blocks N 5 - 7 in medium drawing machines due to control of iron accumulation.