Our founder, August Clarence Karbum ("Clarence"), a graduate chemist from the University of Detroit, began his career in research (Ethyl Corp.) and solvent industries where he developed lacquer thinners and pipe line clean agents. He then developed the first H2O-based mold release for urethane foam (e.g. headrests, crash pads, etc.) for GM-Fisher Body. Working along with GM engineers from the metal processing department, Clarence was asked to help solve a rust complaint on car roof panels. After inspecting the rust on cold rolled steel roofs, Clarence thought to incorporate the release concept of a viscous compound which stays on die surfaces and apply it to the metal forming industry. This solved the problem resulting with the invention of his first product called 123 Lubricant, getting our first automotive approval with GM.

To follow our most recent approval, in 1999 at Ford Motor Company in the heavy duty stamping category, Metal Mates has created a full line of specialty lubricants for the automotive, stamping, tube bending and welding industries, as well as appliance, electrical and hardware.

Since 1978, our focus has been to provide innovative, high performance lubricants and custom products for our customers. Our highly trained field representatives are unsurpassed in the industry. Our state of the art products are backed up with extensive technical expertise resulting in reduced manufacturing cost to you, the customer.

Metal Mates is an ISO 9001:2000 certified company utilizing enhanced manufacturing techniques for just-in-time production of quality products with the rapid response expected by our progressive, cost conscious customers.

Our products are part of the successful business strategies of our customers and have achieved approvals from Tier 1 suppliers as well as the major automotive manufactures.

Please explore our web site to learn more about how our Metal Mates team and products work to add value to your manufacturing operations.