Cast Irons - Frequently Asked Questions about Cast Irons Answered

The term “cast iron” as used in this Web site refers to a family of ferrous alloys with the most diverse properties. Basically, cast iron solidifies into a heterogeneous alloy with a metallurgic structure composed of more than one constituent. Apart from iron the basic elements of its chemical composition are carbon and silicon.

What is The Popularity of Cast Iron

Produced for hundreds of years, cast iron is often viewed as a low-end, rather cheap material. But in the last fifty years or so, better and more comprehensive knowledge of its qualities have been gained. One of the most important improvements has been its categorization and standardization. The different types of cast iron are now viewed as choice materials with properties that are irreplaceable in many respects.

Is Cast Iron Equivalent to Steel?

The answer is NO. It is a completely different kind of alloy. Although cast iron and steel are both essentially made of iron and carbon, steel generally contains less than 0.5% carbon while cast iron contains more than 2.5%. The information that follows will help you learn more about cast iron.

What are The Main Distinctive Advantages of Cast Iron

• Iron castings can be poured at lower temperatures than those required by steel.
• Liquid iron is more fluid than steel, which allows for complex and varied shapes.
• Cast iron is less prone to casting defects than steel.

How to Choose the Right Type of Cast Iron?

The selection of a given type of cast iron must essentially be based on its properties, its chemical composition often being incidental.

When unaware of the principles governing the properties of cast iron, it is easy to give too much importance to its chemical composition. Caution must be advised in this matter because certain alloying elements can have important negative effects, such as the alteration of the metallic structure, by furthering the presence of certain undesirable inter-metallic compounds.

Fonderie Saguenay is there to help you make the best selection according to your needs.

This information has been sourced, reviewed and adapted from materials provided by Fonderie Saguenay.

For more information on this source, please visit Fonderie Saguenay.