Valves - Choosing Between Ductile and Cast Iron

Comparing valves made of ductile iron and cast iron is simple, as these materials have just
a few major differences. We will outline properties of both materials and then go through the
pros and cons of each.

Cast Iron Valves Specifications

Cast iron (also known as gray iron) is a type of metal that has been in use for hundreds of
years. It is an alloy made from 96%-98% iron, 2%-4% carbon, and small amounts of
silicone. It has impressive temperature tolerance, with some cast iron capable of handling
temperatures over 2100F (1150C). When it comes to pressure, cast iron's strength depends
on its pressure class. The two most common are class 125 and class 250. At less extreme
temperatures, class 125 cast iron flange is rated for pressures between 150 and 200 psi.
Class 250 cast iron is a bit tougher, with pressure ratings from 300 to 500 psi. These
pressures can vary by end type.
Cast iron is strong and will usually go undamaged even after going through intense
vibrations. The main drawback of cast iron valves is that they are not very ductile at all.
Virtually any bending will cause cast iron to crack and become useless. One great quality of
cast iron is that it is not very expensive.

Ductile Valves Specifications

The second material we're looking at is ductile iron. Ductile iron is a more modern iron alloy
that is made with nodule-shaped graphite. This gives the material excellent ductility, so it
will not necessarily break when bent. The temperature limit is a bit lower than cast iron, but
it is still quite high at 1350F (730C). When it comes to pressure, ductile iron valves also use
pressure classes: 150 and 300. At standard outdoor temperatures, class 150 ductile iron
keeps a seal up to 250 psi. Class 300 can stand up to pressures as high as 640 psi.
Ductile iron has excellent corrosion resistance, tensile strength, and yield strength. Unlike
cast iron, ductile iron does not break when it is bent, so it is more suited for high demand
applications. Ductile iron is a strong and reliable material for pipes, fittings, and valves.
 Ductile vs. Cast Iron Valves
Now that we've looked at both options individually, we will compare and contrast ductile and
cast iron valves. Hopefully, this will help you decide which is best for you! We will compare
these materials on durability & ease of installation.

Durability
• Cast Iron: Cast iron is a strong material that can handle higher pressures than just about
any plastic. When rated pressure of a cast iron valve or pipe is exceeded however, it can
bend and crack. Cast iron has virtually zero ductility, meaning it is rigid and will crack if bent.
Cast iron will also rust over time, so regular maintenance must be done to keep your valve
clear of corrosion.
• Ductile Iron: Ductile iron also has impressive structural integrity. It can handle high
pressures and temperatures without flinching. Thanks to its ductile nature, this material is
also less likely to crack when bent. Ductile iron will also rust over time, but not as easily as
cast iron.

Ease of Installation
• Cast Iron: This material gives the user many options when it comes to installation. Cast
iron valves are typically bolted using flanges. Welding is difficult, but not impossible. Our
cast iron valves are available with flanged ends, as this is a great method for high or low
pressure applications.
• Ductile Iron: Ductile iron, because of its structural similarities to cast iron, gives the user
many of the same installation options. Welding is not recommended, but bolting with the
use of flanges is still the best option for most applications.