Heat treating is a process that is used to alter the physical and mechanical properties of materials through the application of heat. It is used in a variety of industries, including aerospace, automotive, defense, and energy, to improve the strength, toughness, ductility, and other characteristics of metals and alloys. Heat treating can involve a range of techniques, including annealing, quenching, and tempering, and is often used in conjunction with other manufacturing processes, such as casting and forging.