Annealing

The annealing process removes the stress from the material while increasing its ductility and reducing hardness. The material is raised above the transformation temperature and cooled at a rate (typically slow). Stresses induced into the material through processes such as welding, forming, and machining may cause distortions if the stresses are not relieved. Annealing can remove hard spots that are created with flame cutting. The reduced hardness makes the material more workable.