What process would typically not involve the use of molds?

Wrought metal production is a process that typically does not involve the use of molds. This process involves shaping metal through mechanical deformation methods such as rolling, forging, or drawing, rather than pouring material into a mold to take a specific shape. In wrought processes, the metal is usually heated and then worked to achieve the desired dimensions and mechanical properties.

In contrast, investment casting, ductile iron casting, and extrusion all utilize molds or specific forming processes to create the final shapes. Investment casting uses a mold created from a wax pattern, while ductile iron casting involves pouring molten iron into a mold to form the desired shape. Extrusion, while often associated with shaping materials like plastics or metals through a die, also involves a mold-like component (the die) to form the continuous shape of the material. Hence, wrought metal production stands out as the option that typically avoids the use of molds.