Extracts from Miscellaneous Observations on the Manufacture of Iron, and especially on Certain Qualities and Properties of Malleable Iron

Abstract

I was induced to offer this slight paper, from frequent experience that many persons, even of extensive general information, and of high attainments in special scientific pursuits, are not aware of the great variety which exists in the properties of malleable iron, and which render one kind of iron the most suitable for one purpose, another kind for another purpose. The properties of iron are found in Great Britain to vary, — 1st. According to numerous conditions of the manufacture of the pig or cast metal, among which are — he kind of ore used, the flux, the fuel, the forms of the furnaces, the heat of the blast, the heat and degree of moisture of the atmosphere, and perhaps certain electrical and magnetic conditions which are not ascertained, but only suspected. 2nd. According to the process adopted in the manufacture of pig iron into malleable iron. With respect to the ores, the varieties known in Great Britain are so numerous, that a mere geological and mineralogical catalogue of them would occupy far more time than could be allowed to an entire paper. To those members who have not yet examined the large official descriptive catalogue of the Great Exhibition, I would remark that in Class I., No. 427, they will find what I believe to be the most complete account of the iron making resources of this kingdom, as regards the ores. It is written from personal observation by my friend S. H. Blackwell, Esq., of Dudley; and his collection of ...