Although metals such as Cast Iron Vs Steel look similar, they are not the same. That is, they both have characteristics that can be either an advantage or a disadvantage in a production process.
So, do you want to know the differences between cast iron and steel? Is steel stronger than iron? Read on to find out the answers to these questions and the advantages and disadvantages of these two metals.
This iron is made through smelting iron-carbon alloys. The carbon content of this alloy is often between 2-4%. To clarify, the cast iron has a carbon content higher than 2%. Furthermore, after the smelting process, the ironsmith pours the iron into a mold instead of working the iron with a hammer and tools.
Aside from carbon content, cast iron also contains 1-3% silicon, improving its casting performance. Besides, it contains trace amounts of manganese. Impurities like phosphorus and sulfur may also be present. The few common mechanical properties of cast iron include hardness, elasticity, ductility, and toughness.
There are different types of this brittle material, with the differences arising due to the different processing techniques and heat treatments employed during the process. The different types of cast iron include：
Steel is an alloy of iron that contains a small amount of carbon, usually between 0.15 and 2%. The carbon content of steel makes it stronger and improves its resistance to breakage. It can also contain other elements that improve its properties, including silicon, manganese, phosphorus, sulphur and oxygen. For example, stainless steel, which resists oxidation and corrosion, often contains 11% chromium.
Steel has high tensile strength, which allows it to be used in the manufacture of tools, vehicles, machinery, weapons and even infrastructure. It also has application in the use of steel guides for custom prototyping.
There are several types of steel. These include
Choosing between these metals will require knowing the pros and cons of both metals. Below are their advantages and disadvantages.
So, between cast iron and steel, which do you prefer? Having seen the advantages and disadvantages of both types of material, the final choice would depend on your product requirements.
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