Cast iron

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Chengqiao aract no. 35 cast iron

Eastern Han Blast Furnace Blower Model (10340434095)

Cast iron is a group of iron-carbon alloys with a carbon content greater than 2%. Its usefulness derives from its relatively low melting temperature. The alloy constituents affect its colour when fractured: white cast iron has carbide impurities which allow cracks to pass straight through, grey cast iron has graphite flakes which deflect a passing crack and initiate countless new cracks as the material breaks, and ductile cast iron has spherical graphite "nodules" which stop the crack from further progressing.

History

Cast iron's history dates back to China in the 5th century BC. It was used for warfare, agriculture, and architecture. The European cast iron industry began in the 15th century; notable developments include the blast furnace in the 14th century that allowed for mass production of cast iron.

Types

There are four main types of cast iron: gray cast iron, white cast iron, ductile cast iron, and malleable cast iron. Each type has different properties and uses, from engineering applications to cookware.

Gray Cast Iron

Gray cast iron is characterized by its flake graphite which gives it excellent machinability and good thermal conductivity but makes it brittle and weak in tension.

White Cast Iron

White cast iron is hard and brittle, with a compressive strength that is significantly higher than its tensile strength. It is formed by a rapid cooling process.

Ductile Cast Iron

Ductile cast iron, also known as nodular cast iron, contains spherical graphite nodules that improve the material's ductility, making it more suitable for impact and fatigue resistance.

Malleable Cast Iron

Malleable cast iron is produced by heat treating white cast iron, transforming the carbide into graphite in a form that is more ductile than in gray cast iron.

Production

The production of cast iron involves melting pig iron, often along with substantial quantities of scrap iron and scrap steel. After melting, the metal is poured into molds to create the desired shape. This process can be done in several types of furnaces, including cupola furnaces, electric arc furnaces, and induction furnaces.

Applications

Cast iron is used in a wide range of applications due to its versatility and relatively low cost. It is commonly used for pipes, automotive components, cookware, and as a building material for structural support in bridges and buildings.

Advantages and Disadvantages

The main advantage of cast iron is its cost-effectiveness and its ability to be cast into complex shapes. However, its brittleness and susceptibility to corrosion are significant disadvantages.

See Also

• Iron
• Steel
• Alloy
• Carbon steel
• Metallurgy

Cast iron Resources
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