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pukb
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I want to know, what exactly gives brittleness to cast iron. Have read many articles on it but people beat around bush and don't answer the question what exactly makes it very brittle.
Thanks
Thanks
Cast iron is a type of iron-carbon alloy that contains a high amount of carbon (2-4%). It is brittle because the carbon in the alloy forms graphite flakes, which create weak spots in the structure and make it more prone to cracking or breaking under stress.
Yes, cast iron can be made less brittle by reducing the carbon content and adding other elements such as silicon, manganese, or nickel. This creates a more stable microstructure and improves the material's toughness and ductility.
Cast iron is commonly used in the manufacturing of pipes, engine blocks, and cookware. It is also used in construction for items like manhole covers, gutters, and ornamental structures.
The brittleness of cast iron can make it difficult to machine and work with, as it is more prone to cracking and breaking. It also limits its use in applications where flexibility and impact resistance are important.
Brittleness in cast iron can be tested using a variety of methods, including Charpy and Izod impact tests, hardness tests, and tensile tests. These tests measure the material's ability to withstand sudden impact or stress without breaking.