Excellent Machinability
Supports efficient machining and precision finishing.
Reliable Strength. Superior Machinability. Proven Industrial Performance.
Bhanu Special Castings offers cast iron casting solutions engineered for dimensional stability, vibration damping, wear resistance, and dependable industrial performance. Cast iron components serve diverse engineering requirements across machinery, automotive, mining, pumps, and general industrial applications.
Cast iron is an iron-carbon alloy generally containing more than 2% carbon, along with silicon and other alloying elements. It is widely used in engineering applications because of its excellent castability, machinability, vibration damping, and cost-effective production.
Grey cast iron contains graphite in the form of flakes distributed throughout a metallic matrix. These graphite flakes contribute to excellent vibration absorption, thermal conductivity, and machining characteristics.
Grey cast iron is particularly suitable for complex-shaped components, machine structures, pump housings, engine blocks, and industrial wear parts.
Supports efficient machining and precision finishing.
Reduces noise and vibration in machinery.
Enables complex shapes and intricate casting geometries.
Supports heat dissipation in industrial components.
Suitable for rigid machine structures and housings.
An economical material for high-volume industrial applications.
Unlike many steel castings, grey cast iron contains graphite flakes that help dissipate vibrational energy and interrupt the formation of continuous machining chips. This combination makes it particularly effective for machinery foundations, engine components, pump bodies, and precision equipment.
The graphite structure helps reduce operational vibration and noise, improving the stability of industrial machinery.
Graphite flakes assist chip formation and reduce machining resistance, supporting efficient finishing operations.
Proper casting design, cooling, and stress-relief treatments help maintain dimensional accuracy during machining and service.
Grey cast iron offers useful thermal conductivity and heat dissipation characteristics for components exposed to temperature variations.
Grey cast iron castings are classified under various national and international material standards that define requirements for tensile strength, graphite morphology, mechanical properties, hardness, testing methods, and material quality.
Understanding these standards helps manufacturers, equipment suppliers, and industrial buyers select suitable grey cast iron grades based on application conditions, strength, machinability, and engineering specifications.
Although grade designations may differ between countries, many standards cover comparable families of grey iron castings. Exact equivalence and grade selection must be confirmed against the applicable standard edition.
| Country / Region | Applicable Standards | Representative Grades / Coverage |
|---|---|---|
| IS 210:2009; IS 3355:1974; IS 3005 (Parts 1–4); IS 4771:1985; IS 7925:1976; IS 5519:1979; IS 13655:1993; IS 1536:2001 | FG 150, FG 180, FG 200, FG 220, FG 260, FG 300, FG 350, FG 400 | |
| ASTM A48/A48M; SAE J431 | Class 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 50, 60; G1800, G2500, G3000, G3500, G4000 | |
| DIN EN 1561; DIN 1691 (Legacy) | EN-GJL-150, 200, 250, 300, 350; GG-15, GG-20, GG-25, GG-30, GG-35 | |
| EN 1561 | EN-GJL-100, EN-GJL-150, EN-GJL-200, EN-GJL-250, EN-GJL-300, EN-GJL-350 | |
| GB/T 9439; GB/T 7216 | HT100, HT150, HT200, HT250, HT300, HT350 | |
| JIS G 5501 | FC100, FC150, FC200, FC250, FC300, FC350 | |
| BS EN 1561; BS 1452 (Legacy) | EN-GJL-150, 200, 250, 300, 350; Grade 150, 180, 220, 260, 300 | |
| NF EN 1561 | EN-GJL-150, EN-GJL-200, EN-GJL-250, EN-GJL-300, EN-GJL-350 | |
| UNI EN 1561 | EN-GJL-150, EN-GJL-200, EN-GJL-250, EN-GJL-300, EN-GJL-350 | |
| AS 1830 | T150, T180, T220, T260, T300, T350 | |
| SANS / SABS aligned Grey Iron Standards | Grade 150, Grade 200, Grade 250, Grade 300 | |
| GOST 1412 | SCh10, SCh15, SCh20, SCh25, SCh30, SCh35 | |
| UNE-EN 1561 | EN-GJL-150, EN-GJL-200, EN-GJL-250, EN-GJL-300, EN-GJL-350 | |
| SS-EN 1561 | EN-GJL-150, EN-GJL-200, EN-GJL-250, EN-GJL-300, EN-GJL-350 | |
| NS-EN 1561 | EN-GJL-150, EN-GJL-200, EN-GJL-250, EN-GJL-300, EN-GJL-350 | |
| KS D 4301 | GC150, GC200, GC250, GC300, GC350 |
Select a country to explore grey cast iron grades and typical published chemical composition ranges (mass %).
| Grade | C % | Si % | Mn % | P % | S % | Min. Tensile Strength (MPa) | Brinell Hardness (HBW) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FG 150 | 3.40–3.70 | 2.10–2.60 | 0.50–0.80 | ≤ 0.20 | 0.06–0.15 | 150 | 130–180 |
| FG 200 | 3.20–3.50 | 1.80–2.30 | 0.60–0.80 | ≤ 0.20 | 0.06–0.15 | 200 | 160–220 |
| FG 220 | As agreed | As agreed | As agreed | As agreed | As agreed | 220 | 180–220 |
| FG 260 | 3.10–3.40 | 1.60–2.10 | 0.60–0.80 | ≤ 0.15 | 0.06–0.12 | 260 | 180–230 |
| FG 300 | As agreed | As agreed | As agreed | As agreed | As agreed | 300 | 180–230 |
| FG 350 | As agreed | As agreed | As agreed | As agreed | As agreed | 350 | 207–241 |
| FG 400 | As agreed | As agreed | As agreed | As agreed | As agreed | 400 | 207–270 |
Chemistry: typical foundry examples, not IS 210 limits (Clauses 6.1–6.2). Tensile strength and hardness: IS 210:2009, Table 3; tensile values apply to separately cast test bars. FG 150 testing is required only when specified by the purchaser.
| Grade | C % | Si % | Mn % | P % | S % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class 20 | 3.20–3.50 | 1.80–2.40 | 0.50–0.90 | ≤ 0.20 | ≤ 0.20 |
| Class 25 | 3.20–3.50 | 1.60–2.40 | 0.60–0.90 | ≤ 0.20 | ≤ 0.15 |
| Class 30 / 30B | 3.20–3.50 | 1.80–2.30 | 0.60–0.80 | ≤ 0.20 | 0.06–0.15 |
| Class 35 | 2.80–3.30 | 1.20–1.70 | 0.80–1.20 | ≤ 0.15 | ≤ 0.12 |
| Class 40 | 2.90–3.20 | 1.50–2.00 | 0.60–0.90 | ≤ 0.15 | ≤ 0.12 |
| Class 45 | As agreed | As agreed | As agreed | As agreed | As agreed |
| Class 50 | 3.25–3.50 | 1.80–2.30 | 0.50–0.90 | ≤ 0.12 | ≤ 0.15 |
| Class 55 | As agreed | As agreed | As agreed | As agreed | As agreed |
| Class 60 | As agreed | As agreed | As agreed | As agreed | As agreed |
Typical supplier examples (mass %), not ASTM limits. Casting-specific rows require a validated foundry recipe; higher classes may need alloy additions.
| Grade | C % | Si % | Mn % | P % | S % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| EN-GJL-150 | 3.20–3.60 | 2.10–2.60 | 0.50–0.90 | ≤ 0.20 | ≤ 0.15 |
| EN-GJL-200 | 3.10–3.50 | 1.90–2.40 | 0.50–0.90 | ≤ 0.15 | ≤ 0.12 |
| EN-GJL-250 | 3.00–3.40 | 1.80–2.30 | 0.60–1.00 | ≤ 0.12 | ≤ 0.12 |
| EN-GJL-300 | 2.95–3.30 | 1.70–2.20 | 0.70–1.10 | ≤ 0.10 | ≤ 0.12 |
| EN-GJL-350 | 2.90–3.20 | 1.60–2.10 | 0.80–1.20 | ≤ 0.10 | ≤ 0.12 |
Typical foundry ranges (mass %), not EN 1561 limits. Higher grades may also use Cr, Cu, Mo, Ni or Sn additions.
| Grade | C % | Si % | Mn % | P % | S % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HT100 | 3.40–3.90 | 2.10–2.60 | 0.50–0.80 | ≤ 0.30 | ≤ 0.15 |
| HT150 | 3.20–3.50 | 1.90–2.30 | 0.50–0.80 | ≤ 0.20 | ≤ 0.12 |
| HT200 | 3.10–3.40 | 1.50–1.80 | 0.80–1.00 | ≤ 0.15 | ≤ 0.12 |
| HT250 | 2.90–3.20 | 1.30–1.60 | 0.90–1.10 | ≤ 0.15 | ≤ 0.12 |
| HT300 | 2.90–3.20 | 1.20–1.50 | 0.90–1.10 | ≤ 0.15 | ≤ 0.10 |
| HT350 | 2.80–3.10 | 1.20–1.50 | 1.00–1.30 | ≤ 0.15 | ≤ 0.12 |
Published production examples (mass %), not GB/T limits. HT150–HT350 examples use 30–50 mm sections; chemistry changes with section thickness.
| Grade | C % | Si % | Mn % | P % | S % |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FC100 | 3.50–3.70 | 2.20–2.60 | 0.50–0.80 | ≤ 0.30 | ≤ 0.15 |
| FC150 | 3.50–3.70 | 2.00–2.40 | 0.50–0.80 | ≤ 0.20 | ≤ 0.15 |
| FC200 | 3.30–3.50 | 1.40–2.40 | 0.70–1.00 | ≤ 0.20 | ≤ 0.15 |
| FC250 | 3.20–3.40 | 1.40–2.20 | 0.70–1.00 | ≤ 0.20 | ≤ 0.15 |
| FC300 | 3.00–3.20 | 1.30–1.90 | 0.70–1.00 | ≤ 0.20 | ≤ 0.12 |
| FC350 | 2.90–3.00 | 1.20–1.50 | 0.70–1.10 | ≤ 0.20 | ≤ 0.12 |
Typical supplier examples (mass %), not JIS limits. Final chemistry depends on casting geometry, cooling conditions and the required properties.
The following categories represent potential grey cast iron product applications. Contact BSCPL to confirm manufacturing suitability for your component and specification.
Cast iron components designed for fluid-handling equipment, dimensional accuracy, and structural stability.
Cast components used in industrial flow-control systems and pipeline assemblies.
Rigid, vibration-damping components for precision manufacturing machinery.
Engineered structural components for equipment assemblies and rotating machinery.
Cast iron components designed for heat dissipation, wear performance, and machining precision.
Custom components manufactured for industrial machinery and engineering assemblies.
Our manufacturing workflow is structured around material control, casting accuracy, process consistency, and quality inspection.
Selection and preparation of suitable iron-bearing charge materials, returns, and alloying additions.
Development of patterns, cores, and moulds according to approved component drawings.
Melting of charge materials with adjustments to achieve the targeted chemical composition.
Controlled inoculation to promote the desired graphite formation and casting structure.
Pouring at controlled temperatures using suitable gating and feeding arrangements.
Controlled solidification to develop the required graphite and metallic matrix structure.
Removal of moulding materials, runners, risers, and surface irregularities.
Stress relieving or other specified treatments to improve dimensional stability or microstructure.
Machining, dimensional finishing, and surface preparation according to customer requirements.
Final verification, documentation, protection, and packaging for delivery.
The mechanical and physical properties of grey cast iron depend on chemical composition, graphite flake morphology, matrix structure, casting section thickness, cooling conditions, and manufacturing process.
Grey cast iron grades are classified based on minimum tensile strength as per IS 210:2009. Hardness values are specified ranges for the respective grades.
| Grade | Nominal Minimum Tensile Strength (MPa) | Brinell Hardness Range (HBW) (as per IS 210:2009) |
|---|---|---|
| FG 150 | 150 | 130–180 |
| FG 200 | 200 | 160–220 |
| FG 220 | 220 | 180–220 |
| FG 260 | 260 | 180–230 |
| FG 300 | 300 | 180–230 |
| FG 350 | 350 | 207–241 |
| FG 400 | 400 | 207–270 |
Tensile strength values are specified for separately cast test bars under IS 210:2009 conditions. They do not guarantee identical properties at every location within a finished casting. Hardness verification should be performed at agreed inspection locations.
The following values are general engineering reference ranges for grey cast iron.
| Property | Representative Range |
|---|---|
| Density | 7.0–7.3 g/cm³ |
| Elastic Modulus | 70–140 GPa |
| Thermal Conductivity | 35–55 W/m·K |
| Specific Heat Capacity | 450–550 J/kg·K |
| Coefficient of Thermal Expansion | 10–13 × 10⁻⁶/K |
| Poisson’s Ratio | Approximately 0.20–0.28 |
| Melting / Solidification Range | Approximately 1,150–1,250°C |
These are typical values and may vary depending on chemical composition, microstructure, temperature, casting section thickness, and test conditions. Grade-specific certified values should be used for critical design calculations.
The final properties of grey cast iron components are influenced by several metallurgical and manufacturing factors. Proper control of these factors helps achieve the desired mechanical, physical, and machining characteristics.
Influences graphite formation and matrix structure. Higher carbon content promotes graphite flakes, improving machinability but reducing tensile strength.
Acts as a graphitizing element. Improves fluidity, castability, and thermal conductivity. Helps stabilise graphite and influences matrix structure.
Size, distribution, and orientation of graphite flakes affect tensile strength, machinability, vibration damping, and thermal conductivity.
Ferritic, pearlitic, or mixed matrix structures influence hardness, strength, wear performance, and machining characteristics.
Affects graphite flake size and matrix structure. Controlled cooling helps achieve uniform properties and reduces the risk of internal defects.
Thicker sections cool slowly, leading to coarser graphite and lower tensile strength. Thinner sections cool faster, resulting in finer graphite and higher strength.
The microstructure of grey cast iron primarily consists of graphite flakes distributed within a ferritic, pearlitic, or mixed ferrite-pearlite matrix. The morphology, distribution, and size of graphite flakes play a significant role in determining the casting’s strength, machinability, thermal conductivity, and vibration-damping behaviour.
Graphite flakes dispersed throughout the metallic matrix provide vibration damping and machinability.
A pearlite-rich matrix generally improves strength and hardness compared with a ferrite-rich matrix.
A ferrite-rich matrix provides lower hardness and generally favourable machinability.
A mixed matrix offers a balance between machinability, strength, and hardness.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Graphite Form | Flake / lamellar graphite |
| Graphite Distribution | Commonly Type A; other distributions may occur |
| Matrix Structure | Ferritic, pearlitic, or ferrite-pearlite |
| Carbide Content | Controlled according to required properties |
| Graphite Size | Influenced by cooling rate and section thickness |
| Inspection Method | Metallographic examination |
The micrographs shown are illustrative references. Production micrographs should be obtained from actual tested BSCPL samples before publication as company test evidence.
Our quality approach focuses on material verification, dimensional accuracy, structural integrity, and compliance with customer-defined specifications.
A range of tests and inspections are carried out to ensure that castings meet the required mechanical, dimensional, and quality standards.
| Inspection / Test | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Chemical Composition Analysis | Verification of alloying elements |
| Tensile Strength Testing | Confirmation of specified mechanical strength |
| Brinell Hardness Testing | Assessment of hardness |
| Metallographic Examination | Evaluation of graphite distribution and matrix |
| Dimensional Inspection | Verification against approved drawings |
| Visual Inspection | Identification of surface imperfections |
| Ultrasonic Testing (where applicable) | Assessment of internal discontinuities, subject to material limitations |
| Pressure / Leak Testing (where specified) | Verification of pressure-retaining components |
| Surface Inspection | Assessment of surface quality and finish |
Verification of alloying elements
Confirmation of specified mechanical strength
Assessment of hardness
Evaluation of graphite distribution and matrix
Verification against approved drawings
Identification of surface imperfections.
Assessment of internal discontinuities.
Verification of pressure-retaining components.
Inspection procedures and acceptance criteria are selected according to applicable standards, purchase specifications, and component requirements.
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