Lamellar graphite cast iron (GJL)
Grey cast iron, or lamellar graphite cast iron, is one of the most established materials in industrial production, valued for its reliability, versatility of application, and cost-effectiveness.
Zanardi Fonderie produces gray cast iron in accordance with the UNI-EN 1561 standard, in grades EN-GJL-200, EN-GJL-250, EN-GJL-300, and EN-GJL-350, guaranteeing consistent quality, process control, and performance in line with the functional specifications requested by the customer.
Characteristics of GJL cast iron with micrograph
The microstructure of gray cast iron is characterized by the presence of lamellar graphite distributed within a ferritic, pearlitic, or mixed metal matrix, defined according to the grade.
Lamellar graphite gives the material distinctive and functionally advantageous properties, namely thermal conductivity, vibration damping, and workability. As is well known, the dynamic mechanical characteristics remain inferior to those of GJS spheroidal cast iron.
From a production process perspective, gray cast iron simplifies component design, offering the possibility to:
- create complex geometries and net-to-shape castings;
- keep the total weight down;
- optimize production costs;
Mechanical and usage characteristics of gray cast iron
The minimum tensile strength of gray cast iron produced by Zanardi Fonderie can vary from 200 to 300 MPa, with elongation at break equal to 1-2%.
The mechanical characteristics described suggest that gray cast iron should be used in applications where tensile stresses are not too high. Typical application examples of gray cast iron produced by Zanardi Fonderie include components for hydraulics and oil hydraulics.
When performance needs to evolve: austempered gray cast iron
In the presence of more severe operating conditions, such as high mechanical loads, dynamic stresses, or abrasion resistance, gray cast iron can be further enhanced.
Through specific heat treatments, such as austempering, it is possible to achieve a targeted upgrade in casting performance, adapting the material to the most advanced application requirements.
Trattamento termico in subfurniturara da Zanardi Austempering
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