Mass conserving processes that are based on deformation have the following characteristics:
| The workpiece material is generally solid. |
| The processes are mass conserving (dM=0). |
| The processing energy is generally mechanical. |
| The deformation processes cause plastic deformation of the
workpiece material at the temperature below the melting temperature of the
material. |
| The desired shape of the workpiece is created through relative
motions between the workpiece and a tool (die) and takes a shape near that
of the die. |
| The workpiece material is malleable (deforms sufficiently to obtain the desired shape without fracture). |
