Modification of Metals
Design & Technology: AQA GCSE, topic 4.6.2
Modification of Metals
There are several common methods used to modify and shape metals.
Hammering or forging
- Hammering or forging involves using a hammer or a forging press to deform the metal.
- The metal is deformed by applying repeated blows or pressure.
- Hammering or forging is used to shape metals into desired forms.
- Flat sheets and three-dimensional objects are desired forms.
Cutting
- Various methods can be used to cut metals.
- For example, sawing and shearing.
- Cutting methods allow you to remove excess material.
- Cutting methods allow you to divide the metal into specific shapes.
Rolling and bending
- Rolling is a process where a metal is passed through a set of rollers.
- Rolling reduces the metal's thickness and alters its shape.
- Rolling is used to produce metal sheets, plates, and foils.
- Bending involves applying force to a metal object.
- Bending uses specialised tools like a bending machine or a vice.
- Simple bends can be made by using pliers or a bending brake.
Casting
- Casting involves melting a metal and pouring it into a mould.
- When the metal solidifies, it takes the shape of the mould.
- Casting is used to create complex shapes.
- Casting is used to create objects that are difficult to achieve through other means.
Welding and machining
- Welding joins metal pieces together by melting and fusing them.
- Welding uses heat and often an additional filler metal to create a strong bond.
- Machining uses cutting tools to remove material from a metal workpiece and shape it into the desired form.
- Cutting tools include lathes, milling machines, and drills.
Extrusion
- Extrusion forces a metal through a shaped opening called a die.
- Extrusion produces a metal with a continuous profile and specific cross-section.
- Extrusion is used to create objects with a consistent shape.
- For example, rods, tubes, and profiles.
Test yourself on Modification of Metals
What process joins metal pieces together by melting and fusing them?
What process is used to produce metal sheets, plates, and foils?