The plastic deformation of a metal by subjecting the metal to pressure exerted by rolling, pressing, or hammering, to change its form or to affect the structure and mechanical properties.
Mechanical working has two objectives: (1) to produce a desired shape, and (2)to improve the properties of the metal. These objectives are accomplished by altering the distribution of microconstituents, refining grain size, and introducing strain hardening. Mechanical working operations are classified as hot-working and cold-working operations. Hot working is the initial step in the mechanical working of most metals and
alloys.
