Bessemer Process
The Bessemer Process was invented in 1856 by Sir Henry Bessemer in England, for the mass production of steel. It allowed for large production of low-cost steel tailored to specific industrial and consumer needs. The process was groundbreaking for its time, and has since been the basis for the modern production of steel.
The Bessemer process works by removing impurities such as phosphorus, sulfur and excess carbon from molten iron by blowing a blast of hot air through it. The impurities are released as ‘hot sparks’, while the molten iron is turned into a solid form. The process also adds alloys such as manganese to the iron mixture to ensure the desired physical properties of the finished product.
The Bessemer process revolutionised the production of steel, making it easier, faster and more affordable. The process was initially used to produce railroad track for the English railways, and later for ships, bridges, armor plating, boilers and more. By 1893, it had become the standard method for steel production in the world.
Today, the Bessemer process is still used to make steel alloys, but the majority of steel production uses other techniques such as the open hearth process or electric arc furnace method. The Bessemer process is a simple and effective way to produce large amounts of steel quickly and cost-effectively.
Overall, the Bessemer process was a revolutionary invention in the 19th century that enabled the mass-production of steel around the world. Invented by Sir Henry Bessemer in England, it allowed no-cost steel tailored to specific needs and applications. Although other steel-making processes have since superseded the Bessemer in most instances, the process remains the basis for the modern-day production of steel alloys.
