What is the process of forming sheet metal into a specific shape called?

The process of forming sheet metal into a specific shape is known as metal forming. This term encompasses various techniques that manipulate metal into desired configurations without changing its mass, as opposed to processes like casting that involve pouring molten metal into a mold. Metal forming includes methods such as bending, rolling, and stamping, which can create complex shapes from flat sheets of metal.

Choosing metal forming is appropriate because it accurately describes the entire category of operations designed to alter the shape of sheet metal while retaining its solid state. This process allows for high precision and repeatability, making it essential in various manufacturing applications, especially in the aerospace and automotive industries, where precision and structural integrity are crucial.

The other choices pertain to narrower aspects of metalworking. For instance, metal stamping refers specifically to a type of metal forming that uses a die and press to create shapes, while metal folding is a specific form of bending. Metal casting, on the other hand, is fundamentally different in that it involves shaping by pouring molten metal into a mold. Hence, metal forming is the most encompassing term that best describes the overall process in question.