Metal forming is the process whereby metal is deformed in order to make a useful shape. Forming metal can be an art, a hobby, a trade or an industry. The most common metals used in metal shaping are steel, copper, aluminum, brass, titanium and nickel.

There are many types of processes for forming metal. Metal can be cast into a mold, forged, rolled, extruded, spun and stamped. Sheets of metal can be formed by bending, drawing, punching and pressing. The forming of metals generally involves at least one of the following methods:

1. Hot metal forming heats the metal to melting temperatures so it can be easily poured or manipulated.

2. Warm forming is performed above room temperature but below the melting point and offers greater precision than cold forming.

3. Cold metal working is done at room temperature and gives the most precise finish.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Contact hot metal forming companies

In hot metal forming, heat is used to soften the metal. The metal is then applied with pressure to a die to make a useful shape. This is the fastest method of forming metals, and it's most preferred in the production of items such as bolts and screws.

I recommend: Lawndale Forge offers hot metal forming services for industrial, commercial and military applications. Star Manufacturing makes sheets, bars, tubes and wires into parts using hot metal forming.

Purchase a warm metal forming machine or outsource your warm metal applications

Warm metal forming uses less force and energy than either hot or cold forming. This method can create more precise shapes than cold forming. It is growing in popularity for gear and shaft manufacturing.

I recommend: Stamtec offers metal forming equipment for hot and warm metal manufacturing of engine parts, gears, automotive parts and hand tools. Formtech Industries is a custom metal forming company that manufacturers warm steel forgings for heavy truck and passenger vehicle applications.

Compare prices for cold metal forming products

The cold forming process uses punches and dies to change a piece of metal into an intricately shaped item. This method of forming metals is the most accurate, but it uses more power.

I recommend: Metaldyne is a manufacturer of hollow, complex and solid cold formed parts for the automotive industry. Stalcop uses cold metal punches and dies to form blank metal into parts. Products range from intricate heat transfer parts to very large items for a wide range of industries.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Metal forming parts can be painted per specifications. They can also be chemically treated to protect them from wear and corrosion.