Patent ID: 8549889
Filing Date: 2013-10-08
Classification: B21D

Abstract:
1. A metal forming process, comprising: applying a lubricant to at least one surface of a sheet metal blank, the lubricant being formed from a vitreous enamel mixed with particles of boron nitride; without pre-heating the sheet metal blank, placing the sheet metal blank including the lubricant applied to the at least one surface thereof into a pre-heated forming tool so that the at least one surface contacts a surface of the forming tool; via the pre-heated forming tool, forming the sheet metal blank into a desired part shape; during the forming of the sheet metal blank into the desired part shape, forming a lubricant layer on the at least one surface as the lubricant is heated from the pre-heated forming tool, the lubricant layer adhering to the at least one surface of the sheet metal blank; removing the formed sheet metal blank from the pre-heated forming tool, the formed sheet metal blank having the lubricant layer formed on the at least one surface thereof; and cooling the formed sheet metal blank to ambient temperature; wherein, during the cooling, the lubricant layer breaks off from the formed sheet metal blank.