The book comprises three parts. Part 1 gives a historical description of
the development of ironworking techniques since the earliest times. Part
2 is the core of the book and deals with the metallurgical basis of
microstructures, with four main themes: phase diagrams, solidification
processes, diffusion, and solid state phase transformations. Part 3
begins by an introduction to steel design principles. It then goes on to
consider the different categories of steels, placing emphasis on their
specific microstructural features. Finally, a comprehensive reference
list includes several hundred pertinent articles and books. The book is
the work of a single author, thus ensuring uniformity and concision. It
is intended for scientists, metallurgical engineers and senior
technicians in research and development laboratories, design offices and
quality departments, as well as for teachers and students in
universities, technical colleges and other higher education
establishments.