Steel vs. Cast Steel – Metal is undoubtedly the most essential material in modern construction and industrial applications. It is widely used in the manufacturing of vehicles, machinery, and power tools. Thanks to its excellent properties such as hardness, mechanical strength, and resistance to environmental factors, it remains an irreplaceable construction material.
Despite its hardness, metal is surprisingly easy to process. Its properties allow for modifications through alloying. This is how cast steel is formed – a multicomponent alloy primarily composed of iron and carbon. So, what are the differences between steel and cast steel?
Cast Steel – Structure and Properties
Cast steel is characterized by its coarse-grained structure and is not subject to plastic deformation. While it has slightly inferior properties compared to forged steel, it is commonly used for casting machine parts exposed to dynamic loads. Cast steel typically contains between 0.1% and 0.25% carbon, while steel in general can contain up to 2.11% carbon depending on the alloying elements.
There are two main types of cast steel: alloyed and non-alloyed. Alloyed cast steel is used in structural components and heat-resistant tools. Non-alloyed cast steel, on the other hand, is typically used for pressure-cast components. One of its major advantages is excellent weldability and machinability. It is also cost-effective, pressure-resistant, corrosion-resistant, and durable under heavy loads.
Steel vs. Cast Steel – Applications and Differences
Metal is a staple in both manufacturing and construction. While steel and cast steel share some common characteristics, they differ significantly in composition, carbon content, and treatment. Cast steel is not subjected to plastic deformation, unlike many forms of steel. Due to its wide range of applications, steel remains a key material for producing vehicles, ship hulls, offshore platforms, and even space rockets.