Effect of common chemical elements on the properties of cast iron

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The influence of common chemical elements on the properties of cast iron: In addition to carbon, cast iron also contains impurities such as silicon, manganese, sulfur, and phosphorus. These elements have a certain influence on both the microstructure and properties of cast iron. (1) Carbon and silicon are the two main elements in siliceous cast iron; they enable the carbon in the cast iron to exist in the form of graphite, that is, they promote graphitization. The more graphite carbon in cast iron, the softer its properties. Therefore, the composition and properties is often ensured by controlling the carbon and silicon contents in cast iron. (2) Manganese can prevent the graphitization process and counteract the harmful effects of sulfur; therefore, it is beneficial to have an appropriate amount of manganese in cast iron. (3) Sulfur is a harmful element that strongly prevents the formation of graphite carbon and reduces the fluidity of cast iron. The lower the sulfur content in cast iron, the better its quality. (4) Phosphorus has no significant effect on graphitization; at higher levels, it can increase the fluidity of molten iron and improve the wear resistance of cast iron. However, the disadvantage of iron with high phosphorus content is that it is hard and brittle.