Purpose This paper aims to synthesize a novel alkanolamine borate and explore the performance of as a copper wire drawing oil. Design/methodology/approach In this paper, a copper wire drawing oil (CU-KL) was formulated by using a novel alkanolamine borate, naphthenic base oil, fatty alcohol polyoxyethylene ether and palm oil. The tribological performance of CU-KL and commercial copper wire drawing oils (CU-DRB and CU-8010) was investigated Findings Under applied loads of 5 N-15 N, the average friction coefficient of CU-KL was 29.4%, 5.4% and 25.3% lower than that of CU-DRB, respectively. At sliding speed of 1000–5000 rpm, the average friction coefficient of CU-KL was reduced by 14.3%, 6% and 10.3% compared with CU-DRB, respectively. Through scanning electron microscope and energy dispersive spectrometry, CU-KL can form B-containing compound at the contact interface, which could synergistically enhance the lubrication effect and improve the wear resistance. Originality/value The properties of CU-KL under different test condition were studied, and the findings are of great significance for the application of alkanolamine borate in copper wire drawing oil.

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