Which is more expensive cast iron or ductile iron?

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Customers from all kinds of industries need valves of all varieties for their high-demand processes. Valves are available in a huge number of materials for any application imaginable. A few of these materials are PVC, carbon steel, stainless steel, cast iron, and ductile iron. In this post we will focus on two of those materials: ductile iron and cast iron. The argument of "ductile vs. cast iron valves" has been going on for decades, as not everyone knows the differences.

Luckily, comparing valves made of ductile iron and cast iron is simple, as these materials have just a few major differences. We will outline properties of both materials and then go through the pros and cons of each. By the end of this blog post, you will be an iron expert!

Cast Iron Valves Specifications

Cast iron (also known as gray iron) is a type of metal that has been in use for hundreds of years. It is an alloy made from 96%-98% iron, 2%-4% carbon, and small amounts of silicone. It has impressive temperature tolerance, with some cast iron capable of handling temperatures over F (C). When it comes to pressure, cast iron's strength depends on its pressure class. The two most common are class 125 and class 250. At less extreme temperatures, class 125 cast iron flange is rated for pressures between 150 and 200 psi. Class 250 cast iron is a bit tougher, with pressure ratings from 300 to 500 psi. These pressures can vary by end type.

Cast iron is strong and will usually go undamaged even after going through intense vibrations. The main drawback of cast iron valves is that they are not very ductile at all. Virtually any bending will cause cast iron to crack and become useless. One great quality of cast iron is that it is not very expensive. As far as metals go, cast iron is usually the most economical option, which makes it a solid alternative for people on a budget.

Ductile Valves Specifications

The second material we're looking at is ductile iron. Ductile iron is a more modern iron alloy that is made with nodule-shaped graphite. This gives the material excellent ductility, so it will not necessarily break when bent. The temperature limit is a bit lower than cast iron, but it is still quite high at F (730C). When it comes to pressure, ductile iron valves also use pressure classes: 150 and 300. At standard outdoor temperatures, class 150 ductile iron keeps a seal up to 250 psi. Class 300 can stand up to pressures as high as 640 psi.

Ductile iron has excellent corrosion resistance, tensile strength, and yield strength. Unlike cast iron, ductile iron does not break when it is bent, so it is more suited for high demand applications. Ductile iron is a strong and reliable material for pipes, fittings, and valves. One drawback is price. Ductile iron is typically more expensive than cast iron due to its more complicated chemical makeup. If your application requires a tougher material, however, you may need to spend a little more.

Ductile vs. Cast Iron Valves

Now that we've looked at both options individually, we will compare and contrast ductile and cast iron valves. Hopefully, this will help you decide which is best for you! We will compare these materials on durability, ease of installation, and price, so you can learn the most important details. For some more technical differences, check out this helpful article.

Durability

• Cast Iron: Cast iron is a strong material that can handle higher pressures than just about any plastic. When rated pressure of a cast iron valve or pipe is exceeded however, it can bend and crack. Cast iron has virtually zero ductility, meaning it is rigid and will crack if bent. Cast iron will also rust over time, so regular maintenance must be done to keep your valve clear of corrosion.
• Ductile Iron: Ductile iron also has impressive structural integrity. It can handle high pressures and temperatures without flinching. Thanks to its ductile nature,
  this material is also less likely to crack when bent. Ductile iron will also rust over time, but not as easily as cast iron.

Ease of Installation

• Cast Iron: This material gives the user many options when it comes to installation. Cast iron valves are typically bolted using flanges. Welding is difficult, but not impossible. Our cast iron valves are available with flanged ends, as this is a great method for high or low pressure applications.
• Ductile Iron: Ductile iron, because of its structural similarities to cast iron, gives the user many of the same installation options. Welding is not recommended,
  but bolting with the use of flanges is still the best option for most applications.

Price

• Cast Iron: Cast iron valves, due to their simpler manufacturing process, will save you a significant amount money compared to ductile iron valves. If you do not need the added benefits that ductile iron provides, cast iron is the smart move.
• Ductile Iron: Ductile iron is the more expensive option, but for good reason. It has properties that give it clear advantages over cast iron in many situations.

There you have it! Now you know that this is not an "ductile vs. cast iron valves" kind of issue. One is not always better than the other. It all depends on what you are using it for!

Iron is one of the most commonly used materials in the world, and it has been used for centuries in various applications. Cast iron and ductile iron are two iron types commonly used in industrial applications. Both materials have advantages and disadvantages, and choosing between them depends on the specific application. This blog will compare traditional cast iron and ductile iron and determine which is more durable. 

For their high-demand processes, clients from a wide range of industries require valves of every kind. Valves are available in a vast array of materials for any conceivable application. PVC, carbon steel, stainless steel, cast iron, and ductile iron are a few of these materials. Cast iron casting manufacturers contribute to sustainable manufacturing practices by optimising resource utilisation and minimising waste.

Fortunately, there aren&#;t many significant variations between cast iron and ductile iron, making it easy to compare valves manufactured from either type. Following a description of each material&#;s characteristics, we shall discuss its advantages and disadvantages. You will be an expert on iron by the time this blog article is through!

Cast Iron

Carbon and silicon are added when the iron is melted, resulting in cast iron. Cast iron&#;s distinctive grey colour results from the graphite particles that make up the material&#;s carbon content. Cast iron has excellent wear resistance, superior machinability, and affordability. It is often used in things like cookware, pipelines, and engine blocks where strength and longevity are needed. 

Cast iron&#;s hardness, which makes it resistant to surface wear, is one of its key benefits. Its hardness, however, also renders it fragile and prone to fracture when under pressure. Cast iron is also prone to corrosion, which may cause rust and degradation over time.

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Keep Reading: Top 5 Industries That Rely On Cast Iron Products Manufacturers

Ductile Iron

Ductile iron is a more modern alloy developed in the mid-20th century. It is made by adding a small amount of magnesium to molten iron, which causes the graphite to form in nodules rather than flakes. This gives the material its characteristic ductility, or ability to bend without breaking. Ductile iron is known for its excellent strength, toughness, and durability. It is commonly used in high-strength and ductility applications, such as pipes, automotive parts, and machinery.

One of the main advantages of ductile iron is its ductility, which makes it less brittle and more resistant to cracking under stress. Ductile iron is also more corrosion-resistant than cast iron, making it a better choice for outdoor applications. However, ductile iron is more expensive than cast iron due to its more complicated chemical makeup.

Comparison

When it comes to durability, ductile iron is generally considered to be more durable than cast iron. Ductile iron is less brittle than cast iron, even before heat treatment. It does not fracture as easily with impact. Being ductile allows the iron to bend. In comparison, cast iron is harder. This hardness means that it manages surface wear well. cast iron is also better at vibration damping. The differences are due to the microstructures of graphite within these iron alloys. Ductile iron has excellent corrosion resistance, tensile strength, and yield strength. Unlike cast iron, ductile iron does not break when bent, which is more suited for high-demand applications. With a strong focus on quality control and efficient manufacturing processes, the best ductile iron products suppliers In India consistently surpass industry standards.

Differences Between Ductile Iron and Cast Iron

Strength 

Due to its superiority over cast iron, ductile iron is preferred for industrial purposes. On the other hand, cast iron is more prone to breaking, making it inappropriate for certain purposes. Additionally, cast iron cannot bend without breaking or elongating more than ductile iron without losing its form.

Cost

Due to its strength and durability, ductile iron is more costly than cast iron. Cast iron costs less since it is simpler to make but more costly overall because it needs constant upkeep.

Employer-Side Applications

Due to its strength and longevity, ductile iron is often used in pump casings, valve bodies, big gas and oil pipe applications and major water and sewage lines. Due to its low cost and simple casting process, cast iron is favoured for smaller pipes, guttering pipes and stove/grill plates.

Other Dissimilarities

• The durability of ductile iron is greater.

• Cast iron is more brittle than ductile iron.

• Different forms may be cast out of ductile iron.

• Cast iron is cheaper than ductile iron in price.

Choosing between ductile iron and traditional cast iron

Although ductile iron costs much more than cast iron, it is less costly and difficult to cast than steel. It is often selected according to both its technical merits and price. It is used when ductility and impact resistance is advantageous since it is a less brittle alloy than cast iron. cast iron still outperforms steel for damping, although it performs better than steel at compressive yield and vibration damping.

Bollards designed to withstand impacts often employ ductile iron. Most pipes, particularly those under pressure, are made of this iron alloy. Where the impact is probable, ductile parts may be found in cable casings, pumps, and vehicle parts.

Cast iron is still a significant and popular alloy for uses where the brittleness of standard cast iron is not a concern. It is often used to construct objects that won&#;t be subjected to impact during normal use. It is also used for hardscape, including tree grating, trench grating, and manhole covers. Its effective vibration dampening makes it an excellent machine base. Additionally, it is the best option for brakes or engine parts that will not be impacted but must handle significant vibration.

Consulting a metallurgist or engineer is crucial before selecting an alloy for any project. They will assess the component&#;s operating stress and aid in selecting materials that can safely handle the application. Sometimes, choosing between ductile iron and cast iron comes down to price. Other times, the unique characteristics of the alloy are required.

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