Theory of Wiredrawing

Introduction Prior to the adoption of continuous drawing practices, little attention was given to understanding wiredrawing theory. This can be largely attributed to the fact that, until the introduction of steam power, the single, largest problem facing wiredrawers was obtaining the necessary motive force required for the drawing process. As developments and improvements in mechanization developed during the Industrial Revolution, little emphasis was placed on understanding the physical process, as satisfactory results were generally obtainable with the moderate drawing speeds and drafting that were used. In any event, wire could be processed only in low volume as short die life limited any further increases in productivity and quality. However, commercial introduction of cemented carbide dies in Germany during the 1920s resulted in an increase in drawing speeds and sophistication in wire mills to handle the larger volumes that could be drawn. Therefore, it was soon apparent that a more detailed understanding of the wiredrawing process was needed. While an impressive body of knowledge has accumulated that affords a comprehensive picture of single-hole wiredrawing, additional detail is needed, particularly for multi-hole processes. Modern wiredrawing is a highly competitive global business where product requirements are continuously changing and the traditional evolutionary or “Edisonian” techniques, which characterized technology development in the past, are no longer viable. Furthermore, given the limited resources that are available in the industry as well as the rapidly changing technical requirements, it is clear that personnel at all levels need an in-depth understanding of wiredrawing theory. It is