Cast Iron–Based Alloys

The multitude of cast iron types determined by the post-processing structure translates into an extremely wide spectrum of offered properties. Cast iron is known primarily for its excellent foundry properties that enable the manufacture of a wide range of products, including those with simple geometry and reasonable properties which do not require special construction solutions as well as those of extremely high quality. The durability of special cast iron grades can be compared to the strength of heat-treated steel. These grades may also have exceptional resistance to abrasion and fatigue, possibility of work hardening, and greater ability to dampen vibrations and seizure resistance than steels. This chapter presents basic relationships related to individual types of cast iron, their production and possibilities of modifying their structure and properties. The possibilities of cast iron against the background of other materials, i.e., other iron alloys, but also aluminum, titanium, or magnesium will be shown. Particularly a lot of attention is paid to the issues of heat treatment, especially austempering of ductile iron, which causes the material to obtain surprisingly favorable properties. Finally, the potential applicability and perspectives of modern cast iron grades will be presented.