What is the carbon content range typically found in cast iron?

Cast iron is defined by its carbon content, which typically ranges from 2 to 4 percent. This range is significant because the presence of carbon influences the material properties of cast iron, such as its hardness, fluidity, and castability. The higher carbon content in cast iron, compared to other types of iron or steel, allows it to be melted and poured into molds, making it ideal for various casting applications.

Within this carbon range, cast iron can also contain other elements, such as silicon, which further enhances its properties and the formation of graphite structures during its solidification. These graphite structures contribute to cast iron's unique characteristics, such as its excellent machinability and wear resistance, making it a preferred material for engine blocks, pipes, and other durable applications.

The other ranges do not accurately represent the carbon content found in cast iron. While lower carbon content can be found in wrought iron, it does not qualify as cast iron. A significantly higher carbon content would lead to other materials, such as pig iron. Thus, the carbon content in cast iron specifically falls between 2 to 4 percent, confirming its classification and usage in various industrial applications.