Ductile Iron Casting Foundry
Precision Ductile Iron Castings
Ductile iron is a family of cast iron alloys known for its high strength, impact resistance and ductility (flexibility). Unlike standard gray iron, which is brittle, ductile iron contains spherical graphite nodules. This unique microstructure stops cracks from spreading. It gives the material a durability and toughness that approaches steel.
R2 Quality Castings is a leading ductile iron foundry in Wisconsin. We use the investment casting process to produce complex, high-strength parts with excellent dimensional accuracy. This process is ideal for converting multi-piece fabrications into single, stronger cast components.
What is Ductile Iron Casting?
Ductile iron casting is the process of pouring molten ductile iron into a mold to create a part. We specialize in investment casting. Our process allows us to produce complex, net-shape parts that require minimal machining.
- Pattern Creation: A wax pattern of the part is created.
- Mold Building: The wax pattern is dipped in a ceramic slurry to build a strong shell.
- Dewaxing: The wax is melted out, leaving a hollow ceramic mold.
- Pouring: Molten ductile iron is poured into the pre-heated mold.
- Finishing: After cooling, the ceramic is removed. The part is then finished, heat-treated if needed and inspected.
Advantages of Ductile Iron Castings
Ductile iron combines the low-cost and design flexibility of gray iron with the strength and reliability of steel. We find it is an excellent material for high-stress and impact-heavy applications.
- High Strength: Offers high tensile and yield strength for load-bearing parts.
- Excellent Impact Resistance: The nodular graphite structure absorbs impact and resists fatigue.
- Good Machinability: Despite its toughness, ductile iron provides good machinability, which reduces finishing costs.
- Cost-Effective: It delivers steel-like performance at a lower production cost.
- High Ductility: The material can be bent or deformed without fracturing.
Common Ductile Iron Grades (ASTM A536)
We pour several grades of ductile iron. The choice depends on your specific needs for tensile strength, yield strength and elongation.
| Grade | Tensile Strength (min) | Yield Strength (min) | Elongation (min) |
| 60-40-18 | 60,000 psi | 40,000 psi | 18% |
| 65-45-12 | 65,000 psi | 45,000 psi | 12% |
| 80-55-06 | 80,000 psi | 55,000 psi | 6% |
Grade 65-45-12 is the most common. It offers a good balance of strength and ductility. Grade 60-40-18 is used for high-impact resistance. Grade 80-55-06 is used when higher strength and wear resistance are required.
Ductile Iron Casting Applications
Ductile iron's versatility makes it ideal for many demanding industries. We manufacture parts for:
- Automotive: Crankshafts, camshafts and suspension parts
- Water & Sewer: Pipes, fittings and valve bodies
- Agriculture: Structural brackets, rollers and tractor components
- Wind Power: Gear boxes, frames and hubs
- Hydraulics: Hydraulic valves, pump housings and cable drums
- Construction: Rollers, frames and structural brackets
Your Wisconsin Ductile Iron Foundry
Quality Castings is your trusted partner for high-quality ductile iron castings. Our ISO 9001:2015 certified process provides strong, reliable parts for your most critical applications.
Contact our ductile cast iron specialists today for more information on our investment casting services or to request a quote.
