Bending is a process where sheet metal is bent along a straight line using a press brake. It is a standard and versatile process for making straight bends and simple forms. Bending does not require special tolling, though it can be slower than other forming processes.

Stamping is a process where pieces of sheet metal (blanks) are fed into a tool to form them into a new shape using a press. Complex forms can be achieved. Stamping requires expensive custom tooling, but for a sufficient quantity of parts can be very cost effective.

In this process, metal is passed between a set of rotating rolls to reduce its thickness or deform it. Rolling is a very efficient process but has somewhat limited use.

Tube bending is the use of one or more machines and tools to change the initial shape of a tube. Bending can be 2D (straight) or 3D. The process may require special tools and its speed varies greatly depending on the desired form.