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
A briefing on fall protection systems for designers
A legal requirement and an ethical must.
CIOB Ireland launches manifesto for 2024 General Election
A vision for a sustainable, high-quality built environment that benefits all members of society.
Local leaders gain new powers to support local high streets
High Street Rental Auctions to be introduced from December.
Infrastructure sector posts second gain for October
With a boost for housebuilder and commercial developer contract awards.
Sustainable construction design teams survey
Shaping the Future of Sustainable Design: Your Voice Matters.
COP29; impacts of construction and updates
Amid criticism, open letters and calls for reform.
The properties of conservation rooflights
Things to consider when choosing the right product.
Adapting to meet changing needs.
London Build: A festival of construction
Co-located with the London Build Fire & Security Expo.
Tasked with locating groups of 10,000 homes with opportunity.
Delivering radical reform in the UK energy market
What are the benefits, barriers and underlying principles.
Information Management Initiative IMI
Building sector-transforming capabilities in emerging technologies.
Recent study of UK households reveals chilling home truths
Poor insulation, EPC knowledge and lack of understanding as to what retrofit might offer.
Embodied Carbon in the Built Environment
Overview, regulations, detail calculations and much more.
Why the construction sector must embrace workplace mental health support
Let’s talk; more importantly now, than ever.
Ensuring the trustworthiness of AI systems
A key growth area, including impacts for construction.