Question 1

What is इस्पात (Steel)?

Accepted Answer

लोहा (Lohā), encompassing both iron and steel (फ़ौलाद), is a ferrous metal integral to Indic heritage architecture. Originating from geological deposits across Bihar, Jharkhand, and Tamil Nadu, its extraction and processing were traditionally refined using indigenous techniques. Steel, an alloy of iron and carbon, exhibits a tensile strength of 400-800 MPa and a density of 7.85 g/cm³ [3]. Its thermal expansion coefficient is approximately 12 x 10⁻⁶ /°C. Historically, लोहा (Lohā) found extensive use during the Medieval Period, the Asaf Jahi Dynasty, and the British Raj, evident in structural beams, reinforcement bars, railings, and fasteners. Traditional names include लौह, फ़ौलाद, உருக்கு (Urukku), ఉక్కు (Ukku), and ಉಕ್ಕು (Ukku). Conservation efforts at heritage sites necessitate careful assessment of corrosion and appropriate restoration methods. Handsteels [1], tools used in its processing, are documented in historical records. Durability depends on alloy composition and environmental exposure. Understanding traditional metallurgical practices is crucial for effective conservation [2].

Question 2

What type of material is इस्पात (Steel)?

Accepted Answer

इस्पात (Steel) is classified as Metal, Alloy, Ferrous Metal. Key properties include Tensile strength: 400-800 MPa (Steel), Density: 7.85 g/cm³, Yield strength: 250-400 MPa (Steel).

Question 3

Where is इस्पात (Steel) used?

Accepted Answer

इस्पात (Steel) is commonly used in Bihar, Jharkhand, Tamil Nadu. It is sourced from Iron ore mines in Singhbhum, Imported steel from Europe.

Question 4

How is इस्पात (Steel) used in heritage architecture?

Accepted Answer

इस्पात (Steel) is used for Reinforcement bars, Structural beams, Railings, Fasteners, Decorative elements in heritage architecture. It is found in 1 heritage sites.

Question 5

What are the conservation considerations for इस्पात (Steel)?

Accepted Answer

Conservation of इस्पात (Steel) requires attention to Susceptible to corrosion and Requires protective coatings. Proper maintenance is essential for preserving heritage structures using this material.

Title	इस्पात (Steel) 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site) Rare Ispāt Steel 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site)
Description	लोहा (Lohā), encompassing both iron and steel (फ़ौलाद), is a ferrous metal integral to Indic heritage architecture. Originating from geological deposits across Bihar, Jharkhand, and Tamil Nadu, its extraction and processing were traditionally refined using indigenous techniques. Steel, an alloy of iron and carbon, exhibits a tensile strength of 400-800 MPa and a density of 7.85 g/cm³ [3]. Its thermal expansion coefficient is approximately 12 x 10⁻⁶ /°C. Historically, लोहा (Lohā) found extensive use during the Medieval Period, the Asaf Jahi Dynasty, and the British Raj, evident in structural beams, reinforcement bars, railings, and fasteners. Traditional names include लौह, फ़ौलाद, உருக்கு (Urukku), ఉక్కు (Ukku), and ಉಕ್ಕು (Ukku). Conservation efforts at heritage sites necessitate careful assessment of corrosion and appropriate restoration methods. Handsteels [1], tools used in its processing, are documented in historical records. Durability depends on alloy composition and environmental exposure. Understanding traditional metallurgical practices is crucial for effective conservation [2].
Also Known As	Steel Ispāt Steel Iron Ferrous metal लोहा लौह फ़ौलाद உருக்கு (Urukku) ఉక్కు (Ukku) ಉಕ್ಕು (Ukku) ഉരുക്ക് (Urukku)
Tags	लोहा Lohā Iron Steel Reinforcement Corrosion
Material ID	`INHFMAT-972066643-20-11-25-LE`
URI	https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/ironsteel
API Endpoint	`https://www.inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/ironsteel`
Total Sites	1
Primary Sites	1
Created	November 20, 2025
Last Updated	November 28, 2025

Time Periods	Medieval Period Colonial Period 19th Century
Dynasties	Asaf Jahi Dynasty British Raj

इस्पात (Steel)

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