This paper outlines experimental analysis of rubberpad forming, combined with part of the PhD research into sheet metal forming with elastic media. This paper covers analysis of the literature on rubber-pad forming and exploration of experimental equipment building. This equipment can be used to test dependence on surface roughness friction in the technological process of stamping with elastic media. By identifying the dependence on friction between the sheet material, base plate and elastic area surfaces, it is possible to precisely calculate the minimum size of the technological bridge. Further research is therefore required in order to enhance the efficiency of rubber pad forming technology. Copyright © (2012) by Danube Adria Association for Automation and Manufacturing (DAAAM).