A marvel of medieval Indian metallurgy: Thanjavur's forge-welded iron cannon

Balasubramaniam, R. ; Saxena, A. ; Anantharaman, Tanjore R. ; Reguer, S. ; Dillmann, P. (2004) A marvel of medieval Indian metallurgy: Thanjavur's forge-welded iron cannon Journal of the Minerals Metals & Materials Society, 56 (1). pp. 17-23. ISSN 1047-4838

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Official URL: http://www.springerlink.com/content/a143871u4r5646...

Related URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/s11837-004-0265-5

Abstract

In this article, metallurgical aspects of a 17th century forge-welded iron cannon at Thanjavur are addressed, including an analysis of manufacturing methodology based on careful observation of its constructional details. Microstructural examination of iron from the cannon reveals that the iron was extracted from ore by the direct process. Thus, the cannon was fabricated by forge welding and not by casting. Electrochemical polarization studies indicate that the corrosion rate of the cannon iron can be compared to that of 0.05% carbon mild steel under complete immersion conditions. However, the atmospheric corrosion resistance of the cannon is far superior to that of modern steel and can be attributed to the formation of an adherent protective passive fi lm. It is concluded that this cannon constitutes a marvel of medieval Indian metallurgical skill.

Item Type:Article
Source:Copyright of this article belongs to The Minerals, Metals & Materials Society.
ID Code:57496
Deposited On:27 Aug 2011 14:58
Last Modified:27 Aug 2011 14:58

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