Cast iron
The term 'cast iron' refers to a range of iron-carbon alloys, with a carbon content that is typically between 2 and 4%. During the Industrial Revolution, before the widespread development of the steel industry, cast iron was commonly used in a wide range of architectural applications because of to its relative affordability.
Cast iron is manufactured by re-melting pig iron along with quantities of limestone, silicon and carbon (and sometimes scrap steel). Traditionally, cast iron is melted in a blast furnace known as a cupola, but it can also melted in electric induction furnaces or arc furnaces. The molten cast iron is then poured into a holding furnace or ladle ready for casting (that is, being poured into a mould, and allowed to cool).
The advantages of using cast iron derive from its relatively low melting temperature, which increases its usability, and its good compression strength. However, it is weak in tension and bending, and will fracture before it bends or distorts. It also loses strength and stiffness when subjected to high heat.
In comparison with wrought iron or steel, cast iron is non-malleable, hard and brittle.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Aluminium.
- Conservation of Architectural Ironwork.
- Copper.
- Difference between cast iron and wrought iron.
- Failure of cast iron beams.
- Ferrous.
- Galvanised steel.
- Investment casting.
- Iron.
- Ironwork.
- Metal.
- Metal fabrication.
- Stainless steel.
- Stove.
- Structural steelwork.
- The Iron Bridge.
- Types of metal.
- Weathering steel.
- Wrought iron.
- Zinc
Featured articles and news
Noise in the built environment
BSRIA guide TG 20/2021.
17,000 people suffer conditions as a result of exposure to excessive noise at work.
Turning down the noise: Auditory health
A pervasive risk with far-reaching consequences.
UK Construction Week, London is here !
Debuting major international pavilions and much more.
Getting the most out of heat pumps and heating
How heat pumps work and how they work best.
Plumbing and heating for successful retrofit and renovation
Low temperature underfloor systems and heat pumps.
Cost-of-living crisis and home improvement plans
Starting on the right footing and top tips for projects.
Delays on construction projects
Types, mitigation and the acceleration of works.
From Chaucer to Fawlty Towers.
Electrotechnical excellence, now open for entries.
Net zero electricity grids BSRIA guide NZG 5/2024
Outlining the changes needed to transition to net zero.
CIOB Global Student Challenge 2024
Universitas Indonesia wins for second year running.
New project and cultural district described in detail.
ECA 2024 Apprentice of the Year Award
Entries open for submission until May 31.
UK gov apprenticeship funding from April 2024
Brief summary the policy paper updated in March.