Cementation Furnace, Sheffield

The Cementation Furnace is a historic steel-making furnace in Sheffield. It is the only one of its kind surviving intact in Great Britain. Due to its historical importance, it has been designated as a Grade II listed building.

The Cementation Furnace was built in 1848. Its purpose was to produce steel for the firm of Daniel Doncasters and Sons. The furnace was used on Blister steel until 1870. Blister steel was the first type of commercially produced steel. The process in the cementation furnace left it with a blistered appearance, hence its name. The furnace remained in use until 1952.

Though there were more than 250 cementation furnaces at the time, all others have been destroyed or damaged. During World War II, the Cementation Furnace was fitted with a blackout cover as a precaution during air raids.

The furnace was restored in 1993 and is now a popular spot for visitors to Sheffield. It is surrounded by a locked, gated fence. Those who wish to enter the furnace may receive a key to the gate from the Kelham Island Museum.

Image Courtesy of Wikimedia and Mick Knapton.

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Sight Name: Cementation Furnace
Sight Location: Sheffield, England (See walking tours in Sheffield)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:

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Walking Tours in Sheffield, England

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