Cast Iron vs Steel: Pros & Differences

Cast iron and steel are widely opted metals and cater to many industries. However, the two of these have some characteristics which make them similar and some which differentiate them.

It is very important to understand how the two of these metals differ so that when selecting them, the right option can be chosen. So, if you are eager to learn about cast iron vs steel, the guide below is meant for you. Let's read.

What’s Cast Iron?

Cast iron is an alloy of carbon and iron. The two metals are melted and then mixed together to create cast iron, which has carbon of about 2 to 4%.

The molten form of the two metals is poured into the molds so that it can set, and a new metal alloy, cast iron, is attained.

There are different methods of manufacturing cast iron, and it is even composed of different types, each with a varied composition and properties.

What’s Steel?

Steel is an iron alloy that has a very low iron composition of 2%. The presence of carbon makes steel strong and also enhances its resistance against deformation.

Steel also contains other elements like oxygen, manganese, phosphorus, silicon, and sulfur. It can also offer resistance against corrosion, provided that it has chromium of about 11%.

Pros and Cons of Cast Iron

The pros and cons of cast iron are discussed below:

Pros

• It is capable of being cast.
• Cast iron has a high toughness level followed by strength when compressed.
• It is easy to machine and has anti-vibration characteristics.
• Cast iron doesn't bend easily and also resists wear.
• It is available in mass quantities.

Cons

• Cast iron is prone to corrosion and rusting.
• It doesn't have a high tensile strength
• It is very delicate and cannot resist impact.
• It has an unnecessarily high strength-to-weight ratio.

Pros and Cons of Steel

The pros and cons of steel are discussed below:

Pros

• Steel is highly flexible because there are many elements that can be alloyed in different compositions to attain the properties you need.
• It offers resistance against corrosion.
• It is highly machinable.
• Steel has high strength.

Cons

• Steel doesn't offer impact resistance.
• It is also very costly when compared to cast iron

Different Types of Cast Iron and Steel

There are different types of cast iron and steel, each with its own properties.

Types of Cast Iron

• White iron
• Gray iron
• Malleable iron
• Ductile iron
• Compacted graphite iron

Types of Steel

• Tool steel
• Carbon steel
• Stainless steel
• Alloy steel

Comprehensive Comparison between Cast Iron and Steel

The comparison of cast iron vs steel is highlighted in the section below:

Conclusion

The guide above must have given you a complete insight into the comparison between cast iron and steel. If you are planning to use any of these materials in your new projects and need assistance with the selection and manufacturing of components, you can contact us.

We at DEK offer our clients high-quality components manufactured using versatile materials offering high precision.

FAQs

Which is more durable, steel or cast iron?

Cast iron offers high compressive strength, whereas steel offers high tensile strength; both are known to be durable, but steel has a slightly higher durability.

Does cast iron rust?

Yes, it doesn't have any surface finishing over it and is exposed to high moisture, so it can rust.

How to identify the difference between cast iron and steel?

The difference between the two of these materials can be identified with the help of an abrasive wheel. You can grind each of these and observe its pattern and colors followed by sparks.

If the bright yellow sparks are given off, it is steel, and if red and orange sparks are released, it is cast iron.