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In metal-stamping, it can be understandably tempting to want a single stamping lubricant for all your stamping processes – but is this really the most practical approach for your stamping facility? Can there be a negative “cost of convenience”?

Consider fuel as an analogy. Fuel derived from petroleum is used in everything from locomotive engines and automobiles to snow throwers and weed trimmers. While derived from the same source oil – you would never use diesel fuel in a car that uses regular unleaded gasoline. You wouldn’t use an oil and gas mixture in a 4-stroke engine either. This is because the energy and lubrication demands of the different engines require their specific fuel that is compatible with their unique construction and function. Engines and fuels aren’t identical - and neither are stamping facilities.

Stamping lubricants can be, and often are, specifically tailored for certain types of processes or substrates. This is because metals differ in their formability, surface characteristics and potential for staining and corrosion. Selected chemistries should provide for optimal protection of production parts and tooling, but also not interfere with downstream processes like welding and final surface treatments.

The “one size fits all” approach often cuts corners in safety or compatibility aspects to achieve a more “general purpose” product and can lead to unanticipated, inflated costs elsewhere in production. The safest bet is not always the most “convenient” – but a supplier that will work with you to find the best product for your unique applications and help optimize the delivery of that fluid in your process is the closest to a “sure thing” you’ll find. If you’re tired of cutting corners and want to do it right – give IRMCO a call and experience the difference.