What does the term "flange" refer to in metalworking?

The term "flange" in metalworking specifically refers to an angled edge or extension that is a prominent feature in the design of various components. Flanges are often used to provide strength, allow for connections between components, or facilitate the attachment of parts together.

In the context of structural design, flanges serve as critical load-bearing surfaces, particularly in beams, where they help resist bending and shear forces. Their design can vary, but typically they extend outward from the main body of a component, forming a crucial part of structures like beams or pipes.

The other options, such as a supporting beam, a type of bolt, or a weight-reducing feature, do not accurately represent the specific function and definition of a flange in metalworking. While a supporting beam can have flanges, it is not synonymous with the term "flange." Similarly, while bolts may be used in conjunction with flanges in mechanical assemblies, they do not define what flanges are.