Ductile cast iron is stronger than common cast iron due to the addition of spherical graphite. It is used in high-performance automotive applications and manufacturing, and is suitable for high heat applications.
Ductile cast iron is a type of cast iron that has higher strength than common cast iron. Often called nodular iron or ductile iron, the key to the strength comes from the addition of spherical graphite into the cast iron mix. Graphite allows for a more flexible and springy iron, which resists breaking and cracking far superior to common cast iron materials. Carbon, silicone, and manganese are all components of ductile iron and serve to give iron its strength. Often used in automobiles and machinery when more strength is required than aluminum can produce and solid steel is not needed, ductile iron is a strong and affordable option.
In automotive use, ductile iron is commonly used in high performance rear gear and cylinder sleeve applications. In the case of the rear gear case, the common name for the high performance unit is a nodular case. This comes from the term nodular iron, which is based on the nodular graphite particles that give ductile iron its strength. When used in cylinder wall sleeves, ductile iron produces a cylinder strong enough to withstand the extreme pressures generated by a racing engine. The material composition of the ductile sleeves also promotes greater ring sealing and improved oil compression and control.
Due to the increased strength of cylinder sleeves, installing sleeves into an engine block can actually increase the strength of the block. This was not always the case and as such the casing of an engine block carried a certain misconception that the block was in any way inferior to a sleeveless unit. Advances in metallurgy and machining processes and techniques have replaced that school of thought among seasoned pilots and engine builders. Most of the world’s most powerful engines, nitromethane-burning racing engines, feature replaceable ductile iron cylinder liners.
In a manufacturing application, ductile iron is easily drilled and tapped, producing threaded holes that do not easily disengage when a fastener is tightened into place. The corrosion resistance of ductile iron pipe makes it a better choice than gray iron pipe for water lines and valve assemblies. This is also the pipe of choice for many plumbers when the soil isn’t optimal for plastic pipe. Manhole covers are also made of ductile material due to its extraordinary strength and durability. The iron alloy is suitable for high heat applications.
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