Ductile Iron for Precision Casting
Strong Enough for Shaping, Tough Enough for Long-Term
Ductile iron is a ferrous alloy and increases the durability, reliability, and safety of precision cast components compared to other ferrous and non-ferrous alloys. Most cast irons are brittle, but due to its nodular graphite inclusions, ductile iron is much more resistant to impact and fatigue. Characteristics of ductile iron include:
- High Strength
- High Ductility - ability to deform under tensile stress
- Resistance to Shock
Advantages of Ductile Iron Components
Because our process allows metal to anneal, precision cast ductile iron can be bent, twisted or deformed without fracturing. Ductile iron shares the strength and durability found in typical grades of steel, but shares the design flexibility and low-cost characteristics of gray iron.
- Strong
- Flexible
- Low-Cost Casting
Characteristics of Ductile Iron
Ductility |
Ductile iron is one of the most ductile of all types of cast iron. |
Elasticity |
Modulous of elasticity of ductile iron is higher than gray iron and a little lower than cast steel. |
Yield Strength |
Yield strength of ductile iron is higher than gray iron and some grades of cast steel. High yield strength creates a high safety factor in thermal stress or load bearing applications. High modulous of elasticity and high yield strength provides a high safety factor. |
Tensile Strength |
The cast strength of ductile iron starts around 60,000 psi and tops out around 100,000 psi. |
Corrosion Resistance |
The corrosion resistance of ductile iron is at least equal to cast steel. Advantages include its neutrality to alkaline brines. Ductile iron also shows resistance to concentrated sulfuric acid and steam condensate. |
Heat Resistance |
High temperature strength of ductile iron is comparable to cast steel at around 800°F. |
Impact Resistance |
Ductile iron has a good impact resistance and is dependant on the degree of ferritization in the microstructure. For example, if the ductile iron is highly ferritic, it will have a high impact resistance rating. |
Wear Resistance |
Wear resistance of ductile iron is comparable to cast gray iron. |
Versatile Material for Industrial Applications
Besides being extremely durable, ductile iron is versatile in its own way. Suitable for several industries, ductile iron is the perfect material for casting. Precision iron casting works well for the following applications:
- Wind power
- Water & sewer
- Automotive
Quality Castings offers the right alloy material for your component, promising a strong finished product. No matter the material you choose, know that our investment casting professionals craft solid tools, machine components, and other complex parts. Look to Quality Castings for all of your ductile iron needs.