Cast iron components are manufactured by melting metals and pouring them into a mold or cast to create the desired shape and dimensions. Once cooled and solidified, they can be used in a wide range of industries and for myriad uses.

The most common forms of casting are cast iron (including ductile cast iron, grey cast iron, and malleable cast iron) and cast steel (which includes alloy steel and carbon steel casting). While their chemical properties don’t vary widely, their main difference is their carbon content, of which steel casting contains less than two percent carbon content, and iron casting more than two percent, resulting in varying physical properties. Here are the main benefits of cast iron.

Increased machinability

Machinability relates to how easy a metal is to cut or grind down, which is usually required with gates, fences and runners, etc. In this regard, cast iron is a much easier metal to work with than steel, as the graphite structure of iron is easier to break and work with.

Better damping

The flaked formations in grey cast iron, and the graphite structures in cast iron in general, make for especially good vibration absorption, which reduces stress, wear and tear, and noise. This is especially important in machine beds, engines, and other cases where strong and precise components are used, and which involve a lot of moving parts.

Castability

Cast iron is an easy metal to cast, pouring easily to fill the mold, which makes it ideal for ornate ironwork structures such as street furniture and fencing.

Cost effectiveness

One of the clearest advantages of cast iron is its cost effectiveness. It is cheaper to manufacture, and requires less labour and energy than steel, which is also a costlier metal.

Compressive strength

Compressive strength relates to a material’s capacity to withstand pressure that would reduce an object’s size. This is an important factor where pressure and containment are a part of an object’s intended use. Cast iron generally has a stronger compressive stress level than steel.

Jacob UK have a wide range of cast iron components available with quick supply assured. Standard components are held in stock as part-finished for quick turnaround. Visit our website, or contact us to visit our showroom or talk to one of our specialists. Visit http://www.jacob-uk.com/products/cast-iron-components to explore the wide range.