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Pressing Fluid Steel

The invention of Sir Joseph Whitworth for the production of sound steel ingots consists in applying pressure, by powerful hydraulic machinery, while the metal is solidifying in the ingot. As from 6 to 20 tons per square inch is the amount of pressure required to produce a sound ingot in this manner, the moulds employed are of special construction. The main cylinder is strengthened by steel bands on the outside, and the inside or iron lining is composed of cast-iron lagging, which receives a coat of very refractory loam. This system of lagging permits the gases to escape freely, as they are forced out by the enormous pressure exerted. See INGOT.