What kind of metal processing is typically used to increase the strength of the metal through controlled deformation?

The process of controlled deformation, known as cold working, is specifically aimed at increasing the strength of metals through mechanical means. During cold working, metals are deformed at room temperature, which leads to an increase in dislocation density within the metal's crystal structure. This results in strain hardening, where the material becomes stronger and harder as it is shaped or formed.

Cold working can include processes such as rolling, bending, and drawing, which all involve changing the shape of the metal without heating it to high temperatures. The key benefit of this approach is that it effectively enhances the mechanical properties of the material, making it suitable for applications that require increased strength and durability.

In this context, other processes like welding involve joining materials together rather than strengthening them through deformation, milling is a machining process used for removing material, and annealing is a heat treatment process aimed at relieving stresses and softening the metal, which would not increase its strength in the same way cold working does.