Re:How to Build a 50K Ton Forging Press
by pfdietz on Wednesday August 21, 2024 @01:39PM
(#41312439)
> The >1% carbon precipitates out into graphite within the steel, causing it to behave totally differently. Less rusting, but weaker and much more brittle when solid.
If one adds some magnesium or cerium to the alloy, the graphite precipitates out as spherical nodules rather than feathery dendrites. The resulting material, called ductile iron, is much less brittle than traditional cast iron.
An advantage of the higher carbon content is a reduction in the melting point (by > 300 C), so the material is easier to cast than low carbon steel.
If one adds some magnesium or cerium to the alloy, the graphite precipitates out as spherical nodules rather than feathery dendrites. The resulting material, called ductile iron, is much less brittle than traditional cast iron.
An advantage of the higher carbon content is a reduction in the melting point (by > 300 C), so the material is easier to cast than low carbon steel.