Abstract: Based on the generating and extrusion theory, relative sliding between tooth profiles during gear roll forming process was solved by using the trapezoid area approximately instead of the rolled gear tooth grown area. The shear friction direction on the tooth profiles was analyzed from the relative sliding state. The influence of the relative sliding on the metal flow direction on gear profiles was verified through numerical simulation and experiment. It is verified that metal pulling on the rolling profiles is consistent with the shear friction direction.