Steel is an alloy of iron with carbon inclusions, most commonly imparted during the smithing process with coal. Steel is stronger and more flexible than iron. Due to the abundance of iron and coal in Azeroth, those who have discovered the means of making steel have employed its use in nearly every aspect of their lives. A rarer version of the metal, Moonsteel is used by Gilnean craftsmen by replacing coal in the steel making process with moonstone.
Balance of Coal[]
As early metallurgists in Azeroth must have discovered, the balance of iron and coal content when smelting steel is very important. Using too little coal yields an end result soft and weak like iron, but using too much coal yields a brittle metal known as "Pig Iron."
Uses[]
As mentioned, Steel can be employed in a wide range of uses due to its strength and flexibility. Originally used in crafting tools and implements, it was quickly adapted for armor and weaponry. As the production of steel grew in Azeroth, the alloy was applied to everyday life - including dining ware, toys and building construction. The armies of Azeroth continue to employ steel as a primary material in their constructs of war, plating their ships and equipping their soldiers with steel.