Talk: The Invention, Development and Use of the Bessemer Converter

Henry Bessemer was a prolific inventor, but his most famous invention was a furnace for converting high carbon pig iron into wrought iron and steel.  

This talk covers its invention, development and the metallurgical problems he faced and eventually overcame with the help of metallurgists. To capitalise on his invention, he established a steelworks in Sheffield to show steel manufacturers using the crucible process how quality steel could be made fast, cheap and in bulk. 

This event is organised by the Ken Hawley Collection Trust. Find out more about the collection at hawleytoolcollection.com.