Name the four basic families of shape production processes. Explain the main advantages and disadvantages of each one.

The four basic families of shape production processes are:

(1) Casting, (2) Material removal, (3) Deformation processes, and (4) Consolidation

processes.

1. Casting processes can produce extremely complex shapes, but may have defects related to shrinkage and porosity.

2. Material removal processes can have outstanding precision, but generate scrap as the material is cut away.

3. Deformation processes can offer high rates of production, but require powerful equipment and

dedicated tools or dies.

4. Consolidation processes can produce large or complex shapes, but the joints may possess properties that are different from the base material.