What is the difference between steel and wrought iron?
The words “steel” and “wrought iron” are frequently used interchangeably. However there is a difference in composition of these materials. Today’s steel is more refined with fewer impurities and more carbon (to make it stronger) than the wrought iron of 100+ years ago. Mild steel is the medium of choice for most of today’s blacksmiths. It is relatively inexpensive and sufficiently strong for a variety of applications. Wrought iron is still produced in limited quantities but has fallen out of favor since the early part of the 20th century due to the improved qualities of modern steel.
