Abstract

Ductile iron is renowned for its superior mechanical properties, higher strength, and ductility, combined with excellent castability and the economy of using a scrap melting process. The matrix structure as well as morphology and distribution of graphite nodules significantly influences mechanical properties of as-cast ductile iron. Boron contamination of the scrap supply has presented some difficulties in controlling the microstructure and mechanical properties of certain gray and ductile iron grades. In the current study, the effect of boron levels up to 95 ppm was determined on graphite nodularity and distribution in as-cast ductile iron castings as a function of section size. This was accomplished using a combination of light optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy with automated feature analysis. The mechanisms underlying the influence of boron on graphite nucleation, growth, and distribution are discussed. Preliminary data serve as a basis for which to evaluate acceptable concentrations of boron for desired mechanical properties.

Department(s)

Materials Science and Engineering

Comments

American Foundry Society, Grant None

Keywords and Phrases

automated SEM/EDS analysis; boron contamination; cast iron; graphite shape; microstructure; nodularity

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

2163-3193; 1939-5981

Document Type

Article - Journal

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2025 Springer, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Jan 2024

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Included in

Metallurgy Commons

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