18th Century Steelmaking Techniques

In the 18th century, steelmaking primarily involved converting iron into steel through processes like cementation and crucible methods. The cementation process involved packing iron bars in charcoal or carbon-rich material and heating them, causing carbon to diffuse into the iron and create a stronger steel. The crucible method melted wrought iron with additional carbon in a sealed container, producing high-quality steel. These techniques improved the strength and durability of iron, enabling better tools, weapons, and machinery. While less advanced than modern methods, 18th-century steel production marked a significant step toward the large-scale, high-quality steel manufacturing that would follow.