Señal, Railee Vinze
BTVTED – COMPRO - 1A
What is metal works?
Metal works involve shaping and joining metal to make useful or decorative items.
Common methods include hammering, cutting, welding, and molding metal into different
forms. Metals like steel, aluminum, and copper are used because they are strong and can
be shaped in many ways. Metalworking is important in making things like cars, buildings,
and even jewelry.
History of metal works
Metalworking has a rich history that spans thousands of years, evolving from simple
techniques to advanced manufacturing processes. It has played a crucial role in human
development, influencing various industries and technologies. This overview highlights
key milestones in the evolution of metalworking from ancient times to the modern era.
• Prehistoric Period (c. 4000 BCE): The earliest metalworking began with the use of
copper, leading to the development of the Copper Age.
• Bronze Age (c. 3300–1200 BCE): The combination of copper and tin to create
bronze revolutionized tools and weapons, marking significant advancements in
technology and society.
• Iron Age (c. 1200 BCE): Iron began to replace bronze as the dominant material for
tools and weapons, leading to stronger and more durable products.
• Ancient Civilizations (c. 3000 BCE – 500 CE): Cultures like the Egyptians, Greeks,
and Romans developed sophisticated metalworking techniques, including
advanced casting and alloying methods.
• Middle Ages (c. 500–1500 CE): The rise of blacksmithing and the use of metal for
armor and weaponry became prominent, with guilds forming to control training and
production.
• Industrial Revolution (18th-19th Century): Advancements in technology and
machinery revolutionized metalworking, leading to mass production and the use of
steel, increasing efficiency and output.
Señal, Railee Vinze
BTVTED – COMPRO - 1A
Tools used in the history of metalworking
• Hammer (c. 4000 BCE): Essential for shaping metal by striking.
• Anvil (c. 4000 BCE): A hard surface for forging and shaping metal.
• Chisel (c. 3000 BCE): Used to cut and shape metal and stone.
• Tongs (c. 3000 BCE): For holding hot metal safely during work.
• Forge (c. 2000 BCE): A furnace for heating metal to a malleable state.
• Bellows (c. 2000 BCE): Used to increase airflow in a forge, raising
temperatures.
• Casting Molds (c. 1500 BCE): For shaping molten metal into specific forms.
• Lathe (c. 500 BCE): A machine for shaping metal by rotating it against cutting
tools.
• Welding Equipment (c. 1900 CE): Tools for joining metal pieces together
using heat.