Metal working debris

Casting jets/sprues

When bronze socketed objects are produced casting jets/sprues are formed and then removed from the finished object. The jets could then be recycled and used to cast more objects.

Dating and areas of discovery

Date: 1150-800 BC
Distribution: Britain

Examples

Casting jet / sprue ESS-3E54E3

Casting jet / sprue SUSS-B3A0F2

Casting jet / sprue LIN-D742F2

Slag

Slag consists of the compounds which are removed from the smelting process. These compounds can be impurities such as metal oxides, silicon dioxide and metal sulphides. Slag can be reused in the smelting process to assist in temperature control or discarded. Generally, slag looks like an irregular pitted lump and therefore is difficult to date with certainty.

Dating and areas of discovery

Date: 2150-800 BC
Distribution: Britain

Examples

Slag BERK-26E0E5

Slag KENT-3DE053

References

• Rowlands, M.J. 1976 'The Production and Distribution of Metalwork in the Middle Bronze Age in Southern Britain: Part ii'. Oxford: British Archaeological Reports.