Material Description
Malleable cast iron, also known as nodular or ductile cast iron, is a versatile and widely used material in casting applications due to its unique combination of material properties. This type of cast iron is produced by treating white cast iron with specific alloying elements, such as magnesium, which encourages the formation of graphite in the microstructure. The resulting material properties make it highly desirable in various industrial applications.
Malleable cast iron possesses excellent strength, toughness, and ductility, making it a preferred choice for components that require both load-bearing capacity and resistance to shock and impact. It also exhibits good machinability, allowing for ease of shaping and machining to precise dimensions. The nodular graphite in its microstructure provides an inherent self-lubrication effect, reducing friction and wear, and contributing to its suitability in applications like gears and wear-resistant components. Moreover, its excellent thermal conductivity and castability make it an ideal material for intricate shapes and complex parts, where heat dissipation is crucial. Malleable cast iron’s material properties make it particularly well-suited for a wide range of applications, including automotive components, pipes and fittings, agricultural machinery, and various industrial equipment where a combination of strength, ductility, and ease of processing is essential.
Industry Applications
Malleable cast iron is utilized in electrical fittings and automotive applications due to its exceptional machinability and ductility.
Finishing Options
Paint or Spray Coating, Powder Coating
| Density | Tensile Yield Strength (MPa) | Fatigue Strength (MPa) | Hardness (Brinell) | Thermal Conductivity (W/m-K) | Coeff. of Thermal Expansion (mm/mdeg) | Electrical Resistivity (micro Ohm-cm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7 | 370-600 | 200-350 | 170-240 | 40-60 | 45210 | 0.56 x 10^-7 |
Design Recommendation
Malleable cast iron is prized for its excellent machinability. Similar to other cast iron types, maintain uniform wall thickness, draft angles, and fillet radii. While malleable iron can be more ductile than gray cast iron, it still has limitations in terms of mechanical properties compared to other materials, so design with those limitations in mind.
Cost Saving Tip
Cost-effective malleable iron casting requires precise mold design and core assembly. By minimizing core breakage and rework, costs can be reduced. Employing a controlled atmosphere during melting helps improve energy efficiency and reduce impurities. Implement process controls, like automated sand molding and core making, to increase productivity and minimize labor costs. Proper post-casting heat treatment is essential for achieving desired mechanical properties, ensuring fewer defects and rejections.
