Manufacturing processes are the specific methods, techniques, and sequences transforming materials into products. Metal fabrication processes include cutting (plasma, laser, waterjet, sawing), forming (rolling, pressing, bending, hydroforming), welding (SMAW, GMAW, GTAW, FCAW, SAW), machining (turning, milling, drilling, boring), surface treatment (blasting, coating, heat treatment), assembly (fit-up, bolting, welding), and testing (NDE, pressure testing, dimensional verification).

Process selection depends on material properties, product requirements, available equipment, volume, cost, and quality considerations. Process optimization improves productivity, quality, or cost through parameter refinement, tooling improvements, automation, or sequence changes. Modern manufacturing integrates traditional processes with advanced technologies including CNC automation, robotic welding, additive manufacturing for tooling, and digital process control. Understanding process capabilities, limitations, and optimization enables manufacturing engineering creating efficient, quality production.