Thousands of materials have been created through the metal casting process. Cast steel and cast iron are two materials that are well-known to the general public. What are the differences between cast steel and cast iron?
The difference between the two materials is almost invisible. Both contain Fe (Ferro) as a constituent. At first glance, color and texture are also difficult to distinguish. Common people sometimes think they are the same.
Laboratory tests can help us understand the differences between the two materials even more. The appearance or treatment of both materials can also determine it.
The differences between cast steel and cast iron are as follows:
1. Carbon Composition
The carbon content is the first distinction. The results of the chemical composition test reveal the carbon content. Carbon content is a clear and measurable differentiator between casting materials. Cast steel contains less than 2% carbon. Meanwhile, cast iron contains more than 2% carbon. Because this differentiator is based on laboratory results, it has been frequently discussed in various foundry forums.
2. Chemical Composition Analysis
We will see a difference in the test samples when we test the chemical composition of casting materials.
Cast steel can use live objects or ducts and boost system test samples. During the liquid pouring process, cast iron must use the chill test.
3. Material for the Lining
A lining material with an alkaline character is typically and ideally used in the process of smelting cast steel. Meanwhile, the process of smelting cast iron must use an acidic lining material.
A lining’s acid and base can be calculated from its basis. Materials with a basicity of more than 1% have an alkaline character. Materials with a basicity of 1% have an acidic nature.
Simply put, an alkaline-characteristic lining material contains more MgO2. The lining material with an acidic character has a higher SiO2 content.
Can’t acid lining be used in cast steel smelting? Or is it the other way around for smelting cast iron with an alkaline lining?
The answer is, possibly. However, it will interfere with the smelting process, resulting in a lower liquid yield and a shorter lining life. Improperly formulated liquids can cause casting flaws.
4. Sound Hit Analysis
Two casting materials can be punch-tested to obtain a differentiator. The goal here is to be hit in order to produce sound. Cast steel typically packs a stronger punch than cast iron. Cast steel has a clearer and louder ‘trang’ sound than cast iron. Perhaps due to the nature of cast iron, which can dampen vibrations. However, no further research has been conducted. Of course, these outcomes are relative and unmeasurable.
5. Splash of Grinding
This point is also based on subjective empirical observations rather than research findings. However, we can tell the difference between grinding sparks made of casting materials.
Cast steel produces fewer and shorter grinding sparks than cast iron. Again, we are unable to explain why and how.
So, if someone is grinding cast objects and producing long and numerous sparks, he is most likely grinding cast iron.
6. Physical and mechanical properties
Cast iron has low weldability, good forge ability (for malleability), corrosiveness, low wear resistance, high elongation (for ductile), and vibration-dampening properties.
Cast steel has toughness, strength, tensile and compressive strength, good corrosion resistance (chrome alloy steel), and less vibration-dampening ability.
7. Market Value
Cast steel is still more expensive than cast iron in general. Cast steel has a higher process cost because it uses an induction furnace. Furthermore, from patterning to final finishing, cast steel requires more stringent treatment and product results.
8. Application
The final distinction is in the application. Cast iron is used in more applications than cast steel. As a result, the output volume of cast iron is greater than that of cast steel.
Cast iron is used in a variety of applications, including drainage components like manhole covers and gratings, as well as engine blocks and engine bodies. Cast steel applications include precision components, pipes, mechanical structures, and construction structures, among others.