Cast iron is a hard, brittle iron alloy with a high carbon content (over 2%) and typically contains silicon, making it suitable for casting into intricate shapes. Its properties vary depending on the form of the carbon, with gray cast iron being more machinable due to graphite flakes, and white cast iron being more brittle but wear-resistant due to iron carbides. It has a low melting point, excellent compressive strength, and high heat retention.
Composition and properties
Composition: A carbon steel alloy with a carbon content of over 2% and silicon content of 1–3%. Other elements like manganese, sulfur, and phosphorus may also be present.
Properties:
Hard and brittle: Cast iron is generally not malleable, meaning it cannot be easily bent or hammered into shape.
Low melting point: It is more fusible than steel,