The wiredrawing process generates significant heat that affects the lubricants' physical and chemical properties which in turn affects the lubricants' ability to provide separation of the wire to the die. The amount of generated heat is influenced by complex interactions between metal composition, surface preparation, production equipment, and other factors. This presentation reviews basic lubrication principles, and typical lubricant compositions used in ferrous and non-ferrous applications. Also included is a web link to WAI Hard Wire video’s reviewing ferrous and non-ferrous lubricant maintenance practices for maintaining good lubrication.