What is the process called that involves shaping material using concentrated heat sources?

The process that involves shaping material using concentrated heat sources is known as thermal processing. This term broadly encompasses various techniques where heat is applied to manipulate the physical properties of materials, allowing them to be reshaped, formed, or finished. Thermal processing techniques can include methods such as forging, welding, and heat treating, where the application of heat enables more workable material conditions, improving ductility, or facilitating bonding processes.

This process is essential in many manufacturing applications because it allows for better control of material properties and can enhance performance qualities, such as strength and durability. Concentrated heat sources, such as furnaces, lasers, or torches, are pivotal in achieving the necessary temperatures for effective processing.

Other options, while related to shaping materials, do not specifically emphasize the use of concentrated heat. For instance, mechanical processing refers to methods like cutting or milling that rely on physical forces rather than heat. Thermoplastic shaping pertains to a specific category of shaping methods used primarily for thermoplastic materials, often involving lower heat applications than some thermal processing methods. Casting, while a heat-related process, specifically refers to pouring liquid material into molds and curing it. Thus, thermal processing is the most comprehensive and applicable term for the process described in the question.