Corrosion resistant cast iron, also known as High Silicon Cast Iron, is a type of iron alloy that is crafted using the highest quality silicon, providing exceptional levels of corrosion resistance, thermal shock, and heat transfer properties. This form of cast iron is ideal for a variety of environments and is often used in industrial applications due to its ability to withstand extreme temperatures, wear and tear, and oxidation.
At its most basic level, corrosion resistant cast iron consists of a combination of iron, carbon and silicon. The exact composition of this alloy is what sets it apart from the rest of the cast irons in terms of corrosion resistance. It is usually composed of:
Iron: After molten iron solidifies, it is known as “pig iron” and contains a relatively low amount of carbon. In order to achieve a desired strength and hardness, extra carbon is added in the form of graphite or silicon.
Carbon: The combination of iron with carbon is often referred to as “steel” and it is this steel that is used to make the corrosion resistant cast iron. Carbon increases the strength and hardness of cast iron, but it also predisposes it to corrosion and oxidation.
Silicon: Silicon is added to standard cast iron to create corrosion resistant cast iron. Silicon is the main element of this specialized alloy and its amount varies from 2-4%. The main benefit from adding silicon is that it incorporates oxygen into the mix, increasing the corrosion resistance of the alloy.
This combination of elements results in corrosion resistant cast iron that offers superior performance and durability. The addition of silicon also makes this variety of cast iron extremely resistant to oxidation, thermal shock and wear and tear. The extreme corrosion resistance of this alloy makes it an ideal choice for a wide range of industrial applications, including engines, pumps, valves and chemical processing systems.
Moreover, the high silicon content in this type of cast iron makes it able to work with higher temperatures, a great advantage in applications that are exposed to extreme heat, like furnace castings and kiln linings.
Corrosion resistant cast iron provides a level of performance, durability and strength that can’t be attained from any other type of cast iron. This alloy is ideal for a variety of industrial applications and its corrosion resistance makes it a great choice for environments with acidic or alkaline chemicals, extreme temperatures or hostile environments.
