By Denby Ward FAusIMM This publicationexplores the physical and chemical phenomena guiding the industrial operation of the lead blast furnace over the last half century. A primary tool for the extractive metallurgist, the blast furnace has seen many advancements, yet still remains something of an enigma to those working closest to it. Denby Ward has taken up the challenge of demystifying the apparatus, applying a lifetime's worth of knowledge and thinking to present the ideas of most value in an accessible way. Despite expectations of its demise, the lead blast furnace will remain one of the active lead-smelting technologies for some years into the future. This book clarifies the how and why when it comes to the scientific and engineering endeavours of the lead blast furnace.