Tribological performance of some solid lubricants for hot forming through laboratory simulative tests

Tribological research concerning sliding contacts at temperatures of 500–1000°C has received limited attention. Industrial systems operating under high temperatures can be readily found in sheet metal forming processes. The control of friction during the tool–workpiece interaction and minimisation of tool wear are both crucial in maintaining the products quality. The application of solid lubricants can be a possible approach in accomplishing these goals. The objective of this work is to investigate the reliability of combined model and component tests under solid lubricating conditions. The laboratory tests showed that both methodologies provide consistent results in exploring potential of the solid lubricants. •Model and component test methodologies provide consistent results.•Sprayed solid lubricants resulted in ~15±5µm thick coating and could withstand the applied load.•In the contact they perform as sacrificial layer, protecting from adhesive and abrasive wear.•Application of the solid lubricants allows to balance and control the coefficient of friction.