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      Reforming manufacturing processes for metals

      Lesson details

      Learning outcome

      I can explain and compare small-scale and industrial reforming processes.

      Key learning points

      1. Reforming involves reshaping a material into a new form without changing its basic chemical structure.
      2. Small-scale production methods can be used to reform materials.
      3. Reforming materials on a larger scale require different techniques.
      4. Recycling and upcycling save resources, reduce waste, and give new life to old materials.

      Keywords

      • Reform - reshaping a material into a new form without changing its basic chemical structure

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

      • Recycle - convert waste into reusable materials

      • Upcycle - turning old or unwanted materials/products into something useful

      • Pattern - a model of the object to be made, used to form a mould for casting

      Common misconception

      The same tools and methods are used for both small-scale and industrial manufacturing.

      The scale of production heavily influences tool choice, speed, accuracy, and repeatability.

      Teacher tip

      Try to organise a small practical based on any of the processes mentioned in this lesson to fully embed learning.

      Licence

      This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2025), 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.
      What is 'automation' in manufacturing?

      the use of recycled materials in production
      Correct answer: the use of machines or technology to perform tasks
      the process of making products by hand only
      the design of mass-produced goods

      Q2.
      What does 'industrial' typically refer to in manufacturing?

      small, handcrafted products made by a single person
      Correct answer: large-scale production using machinery and technology
      purely artistic or sculptural items
      activities done at home by a hobbyist

      Q3.
      What does 'structural integrity' refer to in materials and structures?

      Correct answer: it can maintain its shape under normal conditions without breaking
      the aesthetic appearance of a structure
      it can resist environmental changes like temperature and moisture
      the cost-effectiveness of building a structure

      Q4.
      Match the action to its force:

      Correct Answer:opening a jar lid,torque (twist)

      torque (twist)

      Correct Answer:sliding a box across the floor,push

      push

      Correct Answer:tugging on a rope,pull

      pull

      Q5.
      What is one main benefit of using standard stock forms in manufacturing?

      they are always made from recycled materials
      they are customised for each product
      Correct answer: they're easier to transport, store, and use in different manufacturing processes
      they don't require specialised tools to work with

      Q6.
      Which group includes only natural materials?

      polypropylene, nylon, wool
      Correct answer: gold, cotton, oak
      polyester, glass, corrugated cardboard
      acrylic, steel, linen

      6 Questions

      Q1.
      Shaping materials again without changing its basic chemical structure is called ...

      Correct Answer: reforming, reform

      Q2.
      What is the main purpose of recycling?

      Correct answer: to save resources
      to generate waste
      to collect raw materials
      to increase pollution

      Q3.
      What is the main goal of upcycling?

      Correct answer: to add value to old items
      to throw things away faster
      to burn waste materials
      to create pollution

      Q4.
      A hollow shape which can be used to form materials in metal reforming is known as a ...

      Correct Answer: mould

      Q5.
      Match the process to the description:

      Correct Answer:pewter casting,molten pewter poured into a mould, then cooled to set

      molten pewter poured into a mould, then cooled to set

      Correct Answer:die casting,molten metal forced into a steel die under high pressure

      molten metal forced into a steel die under high pressure

      Correct Answer:investment casting,wax model coated, melted out, then metal poured in

      wax model coated, melted out, then metal poured in

      Correct Answer:sand casting,molten metal poured into sand moulds for solid forms

      molten metal poured into sand moulds for solid forms

      Q6.
      Order the manufacturing steps to pewter casting:

      1 - melt pewter
      2 - pour pewter into mould
      3 - open mould, release product
      4 - cut off sprue
      5 - polish

      To help you plan your 11 design and technology lesson on: Reforming manufacturing processes for metals, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...