After removal of the iron-oxide layer, the wire is lubricated. A powered capstan draws it through a die, reducing the diameter. Further reduction can take place using extra dies. The drawn wire is finally wound on a spool.
This transformation elongates the wire. One meter of 5.5 mm wire rod can be drawn to 30 meters with 1 mm diameter, or 484 meters with 0.25 mm diameter. The process increases the tensile and yield strength, while reducing ductility.