Wrought Iron

Wrought iron is an iron alloy with a very low carbon content (less than 0.08%) in contrast to that of cast iron (2.1% to 4%). It is a semi-fused mass of iron with fibrous slag inclusions (up to 2% by weight), which gives it a "grain" resembling wood that is visible when it is etched Wrought iron is tough, malleable, ductile, corrosion resistant, and easily welded. Wrought iron is highly refined, with a small amount of slag forged out into fibres. It consists of around 99.4% iron by mass. The presence of slag is beneficial for blacksmithing operations, and gives the material its unique fibrous structure. The silicate filaments of the slag also protect the iron from corrosion and diminish the effect of fatigue caused by shock and vibration. This worught iron is cut straight from a wagon wheel rim. The surface is slightly uneven, and the bars are curved. These can be fairly easily straightened and thicknessed. All bars are 18" long