What is meant by "forging" in materials processing?

Forging is a manufacturing process that involves shaping metal through the application of localized compressive forces. This shaping occurs when metal is heated to a temperature where it becomes more malleable, allowing it to be deformed under pressure without cracking or breaking. The compressive forces can be applied using a hammer or a die, which shapes the metal into the desired form.

The significance of this process lies in its ability to enhance the mechanical properties of the metal. Forging can improve the grain structure of metals, leading to better strength and durability. This makes forged components often superior to those produced through other methods, such as casting, where the metal may have a less uniform structure and could contain defects like porosity.

While the other options mention processes related to metalworking, they do not accurately describe forging. Bending processes and casting under pressure refer to different techniques that do not involve the same forming principles as forging. Applying surface coatings pertains to additional treatments rather than the fundamental reshaping of the material itself. Thus, understanding forging as a process of shaping metal through compressive forces is crucial for grasping its role in manufacturing and materials processing.