The finite element method offers an opportunity to obtain important information by simulating metal-forming processes. The description of the tool-workpiece interaction still remains a critical issue. The aim of this paper is to describe the contact between a deterministic anisotropic tool surface (grooved) and a workpiece. This is done by means of an existing contact processor and a friction law that has been conceived to describe sliding friction. This compromise solution of describing a contact state near to sticking by means of a law created for sliding friction is investigated. The results obtained using a macrogeometric model of the grooved surface are compared to those achieved by an idealized smooth surface and different friction coefficients. Next, an anisotropic model is introduced and calibrated using the inverse method based on the ring upsetting test for a hot-worked steel. © IMechE 1998.