The Rustless Wonder

By Jens Alers, Atlantic Marine LP, Member of the Schulte Group, Hamilton, Bermuda

In January of this year I travelled to India. Together with two of my most senior shipmasters, on home leave from the fleet at that time, I visited the Qutab Minar Fortress in India’s capital Delhi. Moments after walking through the front gate of this ancient fortress, I saw the most fascinating metal object that I have ever seen – the Rustless Wonder of India.

This iron pillar has withstood corrosion for over 1,600 years. Because it simply does not rust, despite its full exposure to the elements since the 4th century, it is an object of perennial interest and curiosity. As such, it continues to attract the attention of archaeologists and scientists, as well as the odd visiting shipmanager, all of whom want to unfold the secret behind its strength.

The pillar is believed to have been a standard for supporting an image of Garuda, the bird carrier of Lord Vishnu. It is 23 ft and 8 inches high and weighs 6 tons – a great symbol of Indian metallurgical excellence. The composition and microstructure of the Rustless Wonder is truly wonderful:

This is only an excerpt of The Rustless Wonder

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