The Importance of Iron Casting in the New Automotive Industry One of the most efficient and economical means of shaping metal into a particular form is called casting- a process in which metal is heated to a molten state can be poured into a mold of choice and left to harden by foundry workers. Malleable iron is made from white cast iron by “cooking” it at temperatures from 1,500 too 1,850 degrees Fahrenheit over several days. This enables the iron carbide to break up, producing rosettes of graphite in the process. This particular iron is known for it’s strength, pliability, shock resistance, and it’s ability to be machined. This is one of the more popular ways of producing engine blocks, valves and iron ornaments among other items for the automotive and agricultural industries, plus many bits and pieces for the military. Even on the most blustery winter day with every window open, casting iron is very hot, sweaty work. The temperatures of the raw materials heating up to an average of 2,850 degrees Fahrenheit (or more) can have quite the warming effect within the surrounding atmosphere. Read more...