New field, analytical data and melting temperature determinations from three vitrified forts in Lochaber, Western Highlands, Scotland

It is concluded that different melt batches were produced locally within an edifice due to irregular T variations across it. The batches did not move very far due to the high viscosity of the siliceous melt. This suggests melting was likely to have been uncontrolled, rather than a controlled process such as could be expected within a bloomery or furnace.