Cast Iron vs. Steel: What’s the Difference?
Contractors need to know the various materials they’ll use on a jobsite. Two materials frequently found that contractors use are cast iron and steel. These metals may look similar, but they have distinct differences that can impact their uses. This blog post explores the differences between cast iron and steel so that you can learn which one fits your project best.
Composition
One difference between cast iron and steel is their composition. Cast iron mostly contains iron, carbon, and silicon, while steel contains iron and carbon with varying amounts of other elements, such as chromium, nickel, and manganese. The composition difference results in varying strength, durability, and rust resistance.
Strength and Durability
Cast iron is durable but brittle, easily cracking or breaking under stress. It works best for applications that require compression strength, such as engine blocks and pipes. On the other hand, steel is much stronger and tougher due to its carbon composition. Construction and infrastructure projects that require a robust and long-lasting material that can withstand weight-bearing loads and resist breaking use steel.
Heat Conductivity
Cast iron’s high carbon content makes it a good conductor of heat, which is why people often see it in cookware. Steel, however, has lower heat conductivity, making it a better choice for structural applications where heat retention isn’t a concern.
Rust Resistance
Due to its high carbon content, cast iron is prone to rust and corrosion. While some steel types do rust, there are some that are less prone to rust and have better corrosion resistance. The addition of chromium, for example, creates stainless steel, which is highly resistant to rust and staining.
Cost
Cast iron is more expensive to produce than steel, so it’s a less common material for construction and infrastructure projects. However, cast iron’s durability and heat conductivity makes it a popular choice for cookware, and its decorative qualities make it a popular choice for ornamental fixtures, like balcony railings and fence posts.
Knowing the differences between cast iron and steel can help general contractors and builders choose the best material for their projects. While cast iron has some advantages, steel’s strength, durability, and resistance to rust make it a more versatile and cost-effective material. By understanding the unique properties of each material, contractors can select the best option for their project’s needs.
You can learn more about what material works for your project needs or go a step further and try out our stainless steel fabrication service. Adding chromium to steel’s compounds upgrades its corrosion resistance properties, making it even more ideal to use in construction. Check out what Custom Manufacturing and Polishing, Inc. can do for you and your team.
