Which operation bends metal to a desired shape by applying force?

• A. Bending
• B. Casting
• C. Forging
• D. Filing

Answer: (A)

Bending is the operation that shapes metal by applying a controlled force to create a bend with a specific angle and radius. When metal is bent, it undergoes plastic deformation along the bend line: the outer surface stretches and the inner surface compresses, allowing a precise corner or profile to form. This process is typically done with tooling like punch and die or rollers to ensure a clean, repeatable bend and to control the bend radius and straight legs. It differs from casting, which forms by pouring molten metal into a mold; from forging, which shapes by hammering or pressing to produce broader changes in geometry and grain structure; and from filing, which removes material to approximate a shape rather than bending it.