An alloy of iron with a small amount of carbon is called cast iron. In modern metallurgy, the presence of a small amount of alloying components in the alloy is allowed, which improves consumer properties. Cast iron is the basis of ferrous metallurgy, it is not only the base of steel production and the engineering industry, but the material used to make artistic elements.
The qualities of cast iron make it possible to use it for the production of products used in various fields. It possesses excellent casting properties at a low cost, strength and hardness sufficient to maintain a given shape under high loads.
In the engineering industry, gray cast iron, to which graphite is added, is widely used. This allows the alloy to effectively damp vibrations and absorb vibrations, making cast iron indispensable for parts such as machine beds and bushings.
The automotive industry uses a reliable alloy to make the strongest, most durable cylinder blocks that will increase overall engine life. It also contains graphite to increase its hardness. A type of cast iron with a bound carbon, it is used for the production of parts operating under intense friction, for example, crankshafts, brake pads, rolling shafts for various machine tools.
The special properties of ductile iron include damping (softening, shock-absorbing) ability, which remains unchanged even when the metal is used at low temperatures. It is equally preferred to use by masters of both central Russia and specialists working in the conditions of the Far North. Units of polar tractors, excavators, bulldozers are made exclusively of this type of cast iron.
Cast iron has proven itself as a material for the production of sanitary ware. The phrase "cast iron baths" is familiar to not a single generation. These products perfectly retain heat, are durable and practical.
Finally, graceful art items are made of cast iron by casting - most of the embankments of St. Petersburg chained in granite are decorated with fragile ligature of fences and gates made of this alloy.
