What is Grey Iron Casting?
Grey iron castings refer to a sort of iron that undergoes casting. The name is derived based on its grey color appearance due to the presence of graphite microstructure found in the material. The composition for grey iron casting usually contains carbon, silicone, and some manganese.
On the other hand, the unique qualities of grey iron casting are proven useful in all areas of industry. Despite being inexpensive, grey iron casting guarantees unbeatable performance. Aside from containing a graphite flake structure, the material is also developed with a highly protected surface film that provides long-lasting durability and resistance.
Common Applications for Grey Iron Casting
Grey iron casting also frequently serves the following purposes:
- Gears
- Shares of plow
- Pumps
- Linkages
- Stove components
- Knuckles for steering
- Tractors’ parts
- Valves
- Components with hydraulics
- Parts of automotive suspension
- Vehicle suspension parts
- Other truck components
- Housings for wind turbines.
- Counterweights and weights
- Bases for machinery
Grey Iron Casting Advantages
- Low-Cost
One of the numerous benefits of grey iron casting is its ability to produce intricate structures at a reasonable price.
Due to their low cost, grey iron castings are frequently used. Its ductility, tensile strength, yield strength, and impact resistance are sufficient for the majority of applications.
- Excellent Vibration and Damping Capabilities
The exceptional vibration/damping properties of grey iron casting also make it appropriate for mechanical and other housing applications.
Metals efficiently conduct heat due to their high level of thermal conductivity.
- Outstanding Compressive Strength
While the compressive strength is comparable to low-carbon and medium-carbon steel, the tensile strength and impact resistance are weaker than those of most other castings.
The microstructure of the graphite determines this characteristic.
- Capacity to Handle Thermal Cycling
Castings made of gray iron can endure thermal cycling. The components cycling back and forth between higher and lower temperatures is referred to as a thermal cycle.
- Tensile Strength
Depending on the presence of other components, grey iron castings have varying tensile strengths.
Despite this, their typical tensile strength is seven tons per square inch. More vanadium can be added to increase the strength.
- Resistance to Deformation
High structural rigidity and anti-deformation qualities are provided by castings made of grey iron.
- Resistance to Oxidation
Grey cast iron has a high level of oxidation resistance. Corrosion isn’t something you need to worry about too much.
Standard Specifications of Grey Iron Casting
An overview of other ASTM regulations that apply to grey iron casting is provided below.
- ASTM A395 & ASME SA395
Castings for ferritic ductile iron that maintain pressure use when temperatures are high.
- ASTM A571 & ASME SA571
Castings made of austenitic ductile iron that are appropriate for use at low temperatures in pressure-containing components.
- ASTM A439
Casts made of austenitic ductile iron.
- ASTM A476 & ASME SA476
Rolls for paper mill dryers made of ductile iron.
- ASTM A536 & SAE J434
Casts made of ductile iron.
- ASTM A874
Low-temperature-service-ready ferritic ductile iron castings
- ASTM A897
Ductile iron castings that have been austempered.
Grey Iron Castings Composition
| Iron Cast | Grey | Ductile | CGI | Malleable | White |
| Carbon | 2.5-4.2 | 3.0-4.0 | 2.5-4.0 | 2.2-2.8 | 1.8-3.6 |
| Silicon | 1.0-3.0 | 1.8-3.0 | 1.5-3.0 | 1.2-1.9 | 0.5-2.0 |
| Manganese | 0.15-1.0 | 0.1-1.0 | 0.10-1.0 | 0.15-1.2 | 0.15-0.8 |
| Phosphorus | 0.02-1.0 | 0.01-0.1 | 0.01-0.1 | 0.02-0.2 | 0.02-0.2 |
| Sulfur | 0.02-0.25 | 0.01-0.03 | 0.01-0.03 | 0.02-0.2 | 0.02-0.2 |
Properties of Grey Iron Casting
| Hardness: | 161-321 |
| Melting Point | 1140-1200 degrees Celsius |
| Tons Tensile Strength | typically 7 tons per square inch |
| Ultimate Tensile Strength | 16700-102000 psi (115-700 MPa) |
| Yield, Tensile Strength | 9500-60900 psi (65.5-420 MPa) |
| Compressive Yield Strength | 83000-200000 psi (572-1380 MPa) |
Custom Grey Iron Casting
For each custom grey iron casting, we consult with clients to establish the optimal material grade and manufacturing technique.
In China, Ucasting is well-regarded for having adequate knowledge of grey iron casting. We offer many services including OEM and ODM. With the help of our expert engineers, Ucasting ensures to give you the best solution.
Get more information about our solution that fits your project by contacting us with your request.
