Is it possible to weld cast iron?

Question

Is it possible to weld cast iron?

Answer 1

Not grey or white cast irons(the crude ones,old tech)maybe with malleable or SG types.Main problem is that with the graphitic or cementitic irons(the old tech)the iron shrinks a lot on solidifying so  that the weld metal automatically cracks.I feel sure that the ductile and speroidal graphite Irons brazing would be possible.If this is for ,say a cracked dain cover consider thermosetting resins,perhaps reinforced with fibreglass.

Answer 2

yes. for best results it is better to gas weld the casting. you would need to "vee" out to about 80% of the thickness, then pre-heat to almost cherry red. then using cast iron rods & flux, lay in 1 fillet, then clean & lay in 2 fiiets. continue with this untill "vee" is full. you MUST then allow the casting to cool in lime. when working the rod it is like working with putty, and you must keep removing the slag.

Answer 3

No it does not fuse properly!

Answer 4

Very much possible nowadays because of electrodes specially formulated for the purpose. The welding procedure however is more complicated than ordinary steel welding as there is a definite sequence to be followed in order to minimize heating which will result in cracking of either the weld or the parent metal.

Answer 5

It can be by using special rods for CI. The process involves heating before starting the welding and slowly cooling to prevent cracking.

Answer 6

It is possible, but as cast is brittle, the weld will tend to crack as the cast expands.

Answer 7

Impossible!!!

Answer 8

Yes but there is a process to it that involves heating the cast piece to a certain temperature for a certain period of time. It will crack easily if done wrong.

Answer 9

Cast iron can be welded with varying degrees of success. Most electrode manufactures produce suitable consumables.

Stubbs 8's are the first to come to mind.

From experience for a crack I'd suggest grinding to to leave a root face the same as the rod diameter, local pre-heat with gas flame, lay down deposits of 25mm in length and peen using a chipping hammer with a radiused tip, and continue like this untill the weld is completed.

I always found it best doing this as a two man operation.

On completion wrap the component in insulation and allow to cool.

And cross your fingers!!

Answer 10

Not in the sense of classical welding because the metal is far too brittle. I think I have heard of a sort of brazing process. If there is a vocational school near you that offers a welding course, you can probably get accurate information. The bonus is that you can find someone willing to do the job for you. That would be spot on!!

[A uni student myself--I have learned that educational institutions often have among faculty those who will answer questions].