The article presents the results of model tests with which a comparative analysis of two methods of ball separation during the skew rolling process was carried out. A verification of the results obtained in the physical modelling process with the results obtained in the real process of skew ball rolling was also carried out. During the physical modelling, the effect of changing the ball separation method on the quality of the products obtained, variations in maximum torque values and maximum radial forces were analyzed. In the case of real tests, the results were verified with the results of physical modelling, in which the surface quality and torque values for one of the tool sets were compared. Physical modelling was used to verify the differences between the two methods of ball separation. Commercial plasticine based on synthetic wax from the manufacturer PRIMO was used as a model material for physical analysis. The plasticine used for testing was cooled to 0 °C and the cooling process took 24 h. The tools used for the physical modelling were 3D printed and the material used was ABS. The method of physical modelling using plasticine as a model material allows for a correct analysis of hot metal forming processes.
Keywords: physical modelling; plasticine; skew wedge rolling.