Provides comprehensive instruction in the various methods of processing metals, plastics, ceramics, and composite materials. The book devotes several chapters to each of the major processes used in manufacturing today: casting and molding, forming, separating, conditioning, assembling, and finishing. Additional information is provided on manufacturing, automation, process planning, and total quality management (TQM). The book is extensively illustrated with photos and a large number of line drawings that clearly convey the details of important processes.