What characteristic is true of bumping in sheet metal forming?

Bumping in sheet metal forming is a process that involves a controlled, localized deformation of the material. This deformation can lead to an increase in the strength of the material due to work hardening. As the metal is shaped and deformed, its microstructure changes, which can enhance its mechanical properties such as tensile strength and yield strength.

This process is commonly used when shaping parts that need to maintain their strength while being formed, making it an essential technique in manufacturing and repair within the aviation industry and other fields using sheet metal.

While bumping does involve deformation, it does not necessarily lead to a reduction in thickness or create a uniform shape, nor is it a method that is not used in practice; therefore, the focus on the increase in strength accurately represents a fundamental characteristic of the bumping process.