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Reforming manufacturing processes

Lesson details

Learning outcome

I can identify and use reforming manufacturing processes.

Key learning points

  1. Reforming materials changes the shape and the state.
  2. Injection moulding is a reforming process for polymers.
  3. Casting is a reforming process for metals.

Keywords

  • Reforming - changing the material shape and state

  • Molten - made liquid by heat

  • Mould - a hollow shape which can be used to form materials

Common misconception

Reforming is the same as deforming.

Reforming changes the state AND the shape; solid, liquid and back to solid. Deforming only changes the shape; the materials always remain a solid.

Teacher tip

Using a glue gun to emulate injection moulding is a great way for students to have a practical experience of an industrial process.

Equipment

Glue gun and mould. Pewter casting facilities.

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Supervision

Adult supervision required

Licence

This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2026), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).

Lesson video

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Prior knowledge starter quiz

6 Questions

Q1.
Accuracy is closeness to the measurement.

Correct Answer: correct

Q2.
What is this the definition for? 'Using the least amount of resources to achieve a goal'.

Correct answer: efficiency
quickly
swiftly
productively
neatly

Q3.
Identify this piece of equipment.

An image in a quiz
Correct answer: ellipse template
eclipse template
circle template

Q4.
A manufacturing process where materials are joined together is called ...

Correct Answer: fabricating, fabrication

Q5.
In the school workshop who is responsible for health and safety?

the headteacher
the classroom teacher
the students
the technician
Correct answer: everyone

Q6.
What does PPE stand for?

Correct answer: personal protective equipment
proper protective equipment
personal protective clothing
apron and goggles

6 Questions

Q1.
Reforming is a manufacturing process where the shape and the __________ are changed.

Correct answer: state
size
stage
sphere

Q2.
Which materials can be reformed?

Correct answer: polymers
Correct answer: metals
timbers
textiles
papers

Q3.
is a metal with a low melting range which makes it suitable for using in schools.

Correct Answer: Pewter

Q4.
When casting metal, what is the PPE worn made from?

Correct answer: leather
cotton
nylon

Q5.
What are the advantages of injection moulding?

Correct answer: quick
Correct answer: repeatable
Correct answer: accurate
low cost
simple shapes

Q6.
Why does casting metal use a lot of energy?

Correct answer: Melting points are high temperatures.
Melting points are low temperatures.

To help you plan your 7 design and technology lesson on: Reforming manufacturing processes, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...