Ductile iron is different from general grey iron as it has remarkable mechanical properties such as impact strength, elasticity, elongation, etc. The graphite particles’ spheroidal nature influences these mechanical properties. Manufacturers source premium ductile iron to cast iron bars and pipes for industrial clients and common people.
Iron is a ferrous metal that can be classified in terms of the carbon content of the basic metal:
- Iron
- Steel
- Cast iron or ductile iron
Solidification produces an austenitic single phase material if the carbon content is less than 1.7%. If the carbon is more than 1.7%, the carbon cannot be dissolved entirely in the iron structure and solidifies in the form of a secondary phase, either as iron carbide (Fe3C) or graphite (pure C). Iron is among the multi-phase materials, which is made of complex structure. It consists of ferrite and pearlite.
Other elements included in iron in limited quantity have an effect on the structure, casting and mechanical properties of the metal. Silicon plays integral part and makes the iron a ternary alloy made of carbon, iron, and silicon.
The Cast Iron Bars And Valve Seat Inserts Suppliers Briefing About Heat Transferring Process
Types of cast iron
The cast iron has a wide range of iron, carbon and silicon alloys. It is usual to categorize them in groups as per the graphite condition, making an extra differentiation based on the structure of the metal matrix.
Graphite shape effect
The grey irons have graphite in the form of flakes and thus, there metallurgical name is flake graphite irons. Each of these flakes may start cracking when abnormal stresses are made at certain points. Metallurgists make attempts to eliminate this effect by changing the distribution or size of the flakes.
Ductile iron properties
Ductile iron is known for its unique properties-
- Tensile strength
- High elastic limit
- Impact resistance
- Good elongation
These properties are further improved by metallurgists by controlling the chemical analysis and heat treatment of the metal matrix. Ductile iron sustains the traditional qualities of cast iron such as-
- Castability
- Compression strength
- Machinability
- Abrasion resistance
- Fatigue strength
Manufacturers are searching for premium vendors to source quality ductile iron to cast iron bars and piping solutions. The products range is delivered to global clients at competitive rates. You can connect with manufacturer that offers best quality products at reasonable rates. Search details of these manufacturers online.