Abstract: A mechanism for centering metal hollow bodies during a drawing operation is disposed in front of a die of an ironing tool. The metal hollow bodies each have a flared section along the edge zone of its open face. The mechanism comprises at least two centering-cheeks adapted to the circumference of the metal hollow body. The centering-cheeks are movably supported for sliding movement within a plane extending transversely to the tool axis and in any direction towards or away from the tool axis. Mechanical control means effect periodic opening motion of the centering-cheeks in any direction away from the tool axis in dependence upon the motion of a draw punch. The control means are effective to cause the two centering-cheeks to embrace the hollow body centeringly after it has been thrust into the die by the draw punch and at at least a fraction of its overall height.