What is cast iron used for ?

Cast iron is used in applications where its resistance to wear and deformation are beneficial, such as in cooking pots. The automotive industry uses cast iron in cars because it resists oxidation from air and water. In the past, it was used in bridges and textile mills.

Cast iron is an alloy material and is comprised of carbon, iron and silicon. Different percentages of each component and varying physical conditions during cooling give rise to colored cast iron. Grey cast iron is the common form and results from cracks made by bits of graphite. White cast iron results from a smaller proportion of silicon and a faster rate of cooling.