What does "cold working" refer to in pipe fabrication?

Cold working in pipe fabrication specifically refers to the process of shaping metal at room temperature. This method is crucial because it enhances the material properties of the metal, improving its strength and hardness due to strain hardening. When pipes undergo cold working, they are deformed through various techniques—such as bending, rolling, or drawing—without the application of heat.

Using this technique allows for more precise shaping while maintaining better dimensional tolerances and surface finishes compared to hot working methods, where high temperatures can lead to unwanted changes in the metal's properties. This makes cold working especially valuable in situations where tight specifications and material integrity are vital, such as in piping systems where performance and safety are paramount.

The other options focus on different processes that do not accurately describe cold working: heating of the pipe refers to hot working, welding is a separate fabrication technique, and cooling pipes does not pertain to the shaping process. Thus, recognizing the significance of working with metal at room temperature is key to understanding the implications and applications of cold working in pipe fabrication.