The advantages of cast iron

Cast iron, with its high carbon content and brittleness and rigidity, cannot be rolled or forged into beautiful shapes. It, however, does have a lower boiling point than wrought iron and can be easily poured into moulds of the desired shape. It can be mass-produced in foundries, thus bringing down the cost of production.

Where it is used

It is extensively used where details of ornamentation have to be repeated. It also looks very chunky and is well suited for the rugged outdoors. The crystalline structure of the element makes it brittle. It cannot be bent into delicate curves. It withstands compression, but not tension. Therefore, there is very little versatility in its looks. Its sturdy appearance is often suited for places of public utility like churches and libraries or for banks and prisons, where security is more important than aesthetics, and where it would not be cost-effective to use the sturdier steel.

Periodic checks

Water is the worst enemy of iron, and there is plenty of that outdoors. Most mating surfaces accumulate water. These must be inspected periodically and remedial repair work done. A good oil-based paint applied over a metal primer goes a long way towards keeping your gates and fences rust-free. Hinges, and other contact points must be checked for rust and, in the earliest dry spell, the rust be removed by treating it with heat. The rust scales off because of differential rates of expansion.

Bright Forecast for Cast Iron

Owing to the expensive operations for steel production, a newer form of cast iron, fashioned by technology has come into vogue. Due to the development of SG (spheroidal graphite), cast iron has been made more malleable. This makes it useful in places where hitherto wrought iron was being used. This means that it need not look as chunky as before. If reports are to be believed, it has replaced stone and pottery as materials for outdoor ornamentation. The rugged rusty surfaces and antique looks find many takers.