Investigation of the effect of modifiers on graphite shape and dimensions in gray cast iron.

The aim of the study is to determine factors affecting cast iron metallurgical quality in casting mass production using new modifiers. Results of studying mechanical properties, microstructure and thermal analysis are presented. Mechanical tests are performed on specimens cut from a stepped casting, and microstructural studies are conducted using a light microscope and a scanning electron microscope. Results of thermal analyses show that introduction of modifiers increases the eutectic minimum solidification temperature and therefore increases the likelihood of forming a vermicular form of graphite within cast iron. An increase in nucleation potential may be achieved by adding modifiers obtained from silicon production waste. Modifiers obtained from silicon production waste containing silicon dioxide and carbon nanoparticles appear to be the most advantageous final modifiers in terms of obtaining the best gray cast iron microstructure parameters and ductility properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]