Valves - Choosing between Ductile Iron and Cast Iron

30 Sep.,2024

 

Valves - Choosing between Ductile Iron and Cast Iron

Customers from a wide range of industries require a variety of valves to meet their demanding processes. Valves are available in a large variety of materials for any conceivable application. Some of these materials are PVC, carbon steel, stainless steel, cast iron and ductile iron. In this article, we will focus on two of these materials: ductile iron and cast iron. The "ductile vs. cast iron valve" debate has been going on for decades, because not everyone knows the difference.

Please visit our website for more information on this topic.

Fortunately, comparing valves made of ductile iron and cast iron is simple, as there are only a few major differences between these materials. We will outline the characteristics of both materials and then present the advantages and disadvantages of each. By the end of this blog post, you'll be an iron expert!

 

Popular DIN F4 Ductile Iron Resilient Seat Gate Valve Made in China

 

Cast Iron Valve Specifications

Cast iron (also known as gray iron) is a metal that has been used for centuries. It is an alloy made of 96-98% iron, 2%-4% carbon and a small amount of silicone. It has impressive temperature tolerance, with some cast irons capable of handling temperatures in excess of F (C). In terms of pressure, the strength of cast iron depends on its pressure rating. The two most common are Grade 125 and Grade 250. At less extreme temperatures, Class 125 cast iron flanges are rated between 150 and 200 psi. Class 250 cast iron is tougher and is rated from 300 to 500 psi. these pressures may vary depending on the end type.

Cast iron is strong and usually does not break, even after strong vibration. The main disadvantage of cast iron valves is that they are not very ductile. Almost any bending will cause cast iron to crack and become useless. One of the major advantages of cast iron is that it is not very expensive. As far as metals go, cast iron is usually the most economical choice, which makes it a reliable choice for people on a budget.

 

Ductile Valve Specifications

The second material we are looking at is ductile iron. Ductile iron is a more modern iron alloy made of spheroidal graphite. This gives the material excellent ductility, so it won't necessarily break when bent. Temperature limits are slightly lower than cast iron, but still quite high at F (730C). In terms of pressure, ductile iron valves also use pressure grades: 150 and 300. 150 grade ductile iron maintains a seal of up to 250 psi at standard outdoor temperatures. 300 grade can withstand pressures up to 640 psi.

Ductile iron has excellent corrosion resistance, tensile strength and yield strength. Unlike cast iron, ductile iron does not fracture when bent, making it more suitable for demanding applications. Ductile iron is a strong and reliable material for pipes, fittings and valves. One drawback is the price. Because of its more complex chemical composition, ductile iron is usually more expensive than cast iron. However, if your application requires a tougher material, you may need to spend a little more.

 

Popular DIN F4 Ductile Iron Resilient Seat Gate Valve Made in China

 

Ductile Iron Valves vs. Cast Iron Valves

Now that we have looked at these two options separately, we will compare and contrast ductile iron and cast iron valves. Hopefully this will help you decide which is best for you! We'll compare the price, durability and ease of installation of these materials so you know the most important details.

 

Price

&#; Cast Iron: Compared to ductile iron valves, cast iron valves will save you a lot of money due to their simpler manufacturing process. If you don't need the additional benefits that ductile iron offers, cast iron is the smart move.

&#; Ductile Iron: Ductile iron is the more expensive option, but for good reason. In many cases, it offers significantly better properties than cast iron.

 

Durability

&#; Cast Iron: Cast iron is a strong material that can withstand higher pressures than any plastic. However, when the pressure rating of a cast iron valve or pipe is exceeded, it may bend and crack. Cast iron has almost zero ductility, which means it is rigid and will break if bent. Cast iron will also rust over time, so regular maintenance is necessary to keep the valve free from corrosion.

&#; Ductile Iron: Ductile iron also has impressive structural integrity. It can handle high pressures and temperatures without retreating. Due to its ductility, this material is also less likely to crack when bent. Ductile iron will also rust over time, but not as easily as cast iron.

 

Easy to install

&#; Cast Iron: This material offers the user many options when it comes to installation. Cast iron valves are typically bolted using flanges. Welding is difficult, but not impossible. Our cast iron valves are available with flanged ends, as this is an excellent method for high or low pressure applications.

&#; Ductile Iron: Ductile iron offers the user many of the same installation options due to its similarity in construction to cast iron. Welding is not recommended, but bolted connections using flanges are still the best option for most applications.

 

Goto solid to know more.

There you have it! Now you know it's not a matter of "tough vs. cast iron valves" or anything like that. One isn't always better than the other. It all depends on what you are using it for!

 

 

Traditional Cast Iron vs. Ductile Iron: Which is More Durable?

Iron is one of the most commonly used materials in the world, and it has been used for centuries in various applications. Cast iron and ductile iron are two iron types commonly used in industrial applications. Both materials have advantages and disadvantages, and choosing between them depends on the specific application. This blog will compare traditional cast iron and ductile iron and determine which is more durable. 

For their high-demand processes, clients from a wide range of industries require valves of every kind. Valves are available in a vast array of materials for any conceivable application. PVC, carbon steel, stainless steel, cast iron, and ductile iron are a few of these materials. Cast iron casting manufacturers contribute to sustainable manufacturing practices by optimising resource utilisation and minimising waste.

Fortunately, there aren&#;t many significant variations between cast iron and ductile iron, making it easy to compare valves manufactured from either type. Following a description of each material&#;s characteristics, we shall discuss its advantages and disadvantages. You will be an expert on iron by the time this blog article is through!

Cast Iron

Carbon and silicon are added when the iron is melted, resulting in cast iron. Cast iron&#;s distinctive grey colour results from the graphite particles that make up the material&#;s carbon content. Cast iron has excellent wear resistance, superior machinability, and affordability. It is often used in things like cookware, pipelines, and engine blocks where strength and longevity are needed. 

Cast iron&#;s hardness, which makes it resistant to surface wear, is one of its key benefits. Its hardness, however, also renders it fragile and prone to fracture when under pressure. Cast iron is also prone to corrosion, which may cause rust and degradation over time.

Keep Reading: Top 5 Industries That Rely On Cast Iron Products Manufacturers

Ductile Iron

Ductile iron is a more modern alloy developed in the mid-20th century. It is made by adding a small amount of magnesium to molten iron, which causes the graphite to form in nodules rather than flakes. This gives the material its characteristic ductility, or ability to bend without breaking. Ductile iron is known for its excellent strength, toughness, and durability. It is commonly used in high-strength and ductility applications, such as pipes, automotive parts, and machinery.

One of the main advantages of ductile iron is its ductility, which makes it less brittle and more resistant to cracking under stress. Ductile iron is also more corrosion-resistant than cast iron, making it a better choice for outdoor applications. However, ductile iron is more expensive than cast iron due to its more complicated chemical makeup.

Comparison

When it comes to durability, ductile iron is generally considered to be more durable than cast iron. Ductile iron is less brittle than cast iron, even before heat treatment. It does not fracture as easily with impact. Being ductile allows the iron to bend. In comparison, cast iron is harder. This hardness means that it manages surface wear well. cast iron is also better at vibration damping. The differences are due to the microstructures of graphite within these iron alloys. Ductile iron has excellent corrosion resistance, tensile strength, and yield strength. Unlike cast iron, ductile iron does not break when bent, which is more suited for high-demand applications. With a strong focus on quality control and efficient manufacturing processes, the best ductile iron products suppliers In India consistently surpass industry standards.

Differences Between Ductile Iron and Cast Iron

Strength 

Due to its superiority over cast iron, ductile iron is preferred for industrial purposes. On the other hand, cast iron is more prone to breaking, making it inappropriate for certain purposes. Additionally, cast iron cannot bend without breaking or elongating more than ductile iron without losing its form.

Cost

Due to its strength and durability, ductile iron is more costly than cast iron. Cast iron costs less since it is simpler to make but more costly overall because it needs constant upkeep.

Employer-Side Applications

Due to its strength and longevity, ductile iron is often used in pump casings, valve bodies, big gas and oil pipe applications and major water and sewage lines. Due to its low cost and simple casting process, cast iron is favoured for smaller pipes, guttering pipes and stove/grill plates.

Other Dissimilarities

  • The durability of ductile iron is greater.

  • Cast iron is more brittle than ductile iron.

  • Different forms may be cast out of ductile iron.

  • Cast iron is cheaper than ductile iron in price.

Choosing between ductile iron and traditional cast iron

Although ductile iron costs much more than cast iron, it is less costly and difficult to cast than steel. It is often selected according to both its technical merits and price. It is used when ductility and impact resistance is advantageous since it is a less brittle alloy than cast iron. cast iron still outperforms steel for damping, although it performs better than steel at compressive yield and vibration damping.

Bollards designed to withstand impacts often employ ductile iron. Most pipes, particularly those under pressure, are made of this iron alloy. Where the impact is probable, ductile parts may be found in cable casings, pumps, and vehicle parts.

Cast iron is still a significant and popular alloy for uses where the brittleness of standard cast iron is not a concern. It is often used to construct objects that won&#;t be subjected to impact during normal use. It is also used for hardscape, including tree grating, trench grating, and manhole covers. Its effective vibration dampening makes it an excellent machine base. Additionally, it is the best option for brakes or engine parts that will not be impacted but must handle significant vibration.

Consulting a metallurgist or engineer is crucial before selecting an alloy for any project. They will assess the component&#;s operating stress and aid in selecting materials that can safely handle the application. Sometimes, choosing between ductile iron and cast iron comes down to price. Other times, the unique characteristics of the alloy are required.