This process was used a great deal in the past for the production of large bronze castings such as huge manganese bronze ship propellers and bells. The technique of loam molding consists of the preparation of a substructure (made of bricks, wood and other material) to the approximate contour of the required casting. A very viscous slurry of water, clay and sand is daubed (trowelled) over the framework and worked to proper shape with sheet steel or wooden sweeps, In the U.K., loam mofdingis also referred to as stricklemolding. This technique was used for generations by U.K. iron founders. It was originally used in the manufacture of cannon, and at a later date in the production of early steam-engine cylinders.