Process and product for lubricating metal prior to cold forming

A composition for lubricating a metal workpiece prior to cold forming consists essentially of: an aqueous alkaline stearate compound present in an amount sufficient to impart metal lubrication between about 180 DEG F. and about 320 DEG F.; an aqueous alkaline palmitate compound present in an amount sufficient to impart metal lubrication below about 160 DEG F.; an aqueous metallic stearate compound present in an amount sufficient to impart metal lubrication between about 320 DEG F. and 440 DEG F.; a polymeric glycol present in an amount sufficient to provide temperature stability, act as a carrier for the aqueous compounds, and impart a waxy lubrication to the metal; a compound present in an amount sufficient to act as a carrier for the aqueous compounds and to provide a translucent film barrier on the metal; an alkaline buffering agent present in an amount sufficient to provide dispersion, viscosity and stability; a hydrotropic agent present in an amount sufficient to solubilize the lubricating composition. A process is disclosed for lubricating a metal workpiece outer surface prior to cold forming, the process comprising the step of disposing a non-reactive lubricating composition on the workpiece outer surface, the outer surface having been alkaline cleaned, hot water rinsed, acid pickled, and cold water rinsed.