Forming, Redistribution, and Addition Processes

Defining Forming, Redistribution and Addition Processes

Forming, redistribution and addition processes refer to the methods of shaping and building parts or products.
They are manufacturing methodology categories designed for shaping and combining materials in various ways to create products.

Forming Processes

Forming processes involve reshaping materials to desired forms without adding or removing material.
This is generally achieved through the application of forces such as compression, tension, or shear.
The inherent properties of the material are used as an advantage during the process. For example, a metal’s malleability enables it to be shaped extensively without cracking.
Common forming processes include forging, rolling, extrusion, and bending for metals.

Redistribution Processes

In redistribution processes, a material is redistributed or repositioned to create a new form.
These processes do not add or remove material, but rather rearrange it.
Examples of redistribution processes include casting, where molten material is poured into a mould and solidifies into the desired shape, and thermoforming, where a plastic sheet is heated until soft and then shaped into a desired form using a mould.

Addition Processes

Addition processes refer to processes that build products by adding materials together.
This category includes various methods of joining materials, such as welding, soldering and adhesive bonding.
More recently, it also includes additive manufacturing, popularly known as 3D printing, where products are built by depositing material layer by layer based on a digital model.

Significance of Forming, Redistribution, and Addition Processes

Forming, redistribution and addition processes offer a broad spectrum of possibilities in product and component manufacture.
They are fundamental to a wide variety of fields, such as engineering, construction, medicine, and electronics.
Understanding these processes allows for better material and process selection, thus optimising cost, manufacturing time, and final product quality.
Mastery of these processes paves the way for innovative design capabilities and solutions.

The choice depends on factors such as the physical properties of the material, the desired final product, the scale of production, and cost considerations. It’s crucial to comprehend these processes to make informed design decisions.