Influence of silicon and addition elements on the mechanical behavior of ferritic ductile cast iron

An experimental study of mechanical properties and microstructural analysis was carried out on different compositions of ferritic spheroidal graphite cast iron. The influence of silicon on the ductility and strength of the material was noticed. The observation of microstructure and failure modes allowed us to explain the important role of chemical composition on the initiation and propagation of cracks. The high silicon segregation between the graphite nodules and the joints of eutectic cells decreases the mechanical material resistance. A metallurgical development was indispensable and necessary to ensure characteristics conformed to the industrial requirements.