Let’s explore how cast iron and wrought iron can be used to bring the best products into your homes.
When selecting a gate, fence, or railing for your home it is important to find the best quality product for your money. Many different kinds of iron can be molded to create beautiful aesthetic designs while other kinds can be used for a more simplistic look. Let’s explore how cast iron and wrought iron can be used to bring the best products into your homes.
Cast Iron
When people think of cast iron they usually call to mind old images of welders in olden times working with iron. Cast iron can call to mind aspects of that era of metal working, however, the literal definition is simply, “Iron that has been melted, poured into a mold and allowed to cool.” Cast iron is most typically associated with gray iron and the process begins by melting iron ore. When liquid, the iron get poured into a mold and allowed to cool and solidify. Cast iron is typically very hard and brittle and non-malleable, it fractures rather than bending under pressure.
Historically cast iron was used in a lot of construction before the advent of the steel industry in the 20th century. In comparison to steel, cast iron has a lower melting more and is much more easily molded. Steel is a much more beneficial product for construction though and has taken over cast iron.
Wrought Iron
Wrought iron is a more difficult and time-consuming procedure than cast iron, but can often produce better products. Wrought iron is typically a picture of silicon, sulfur, and aluminum oxides and is the byproduct of smelting ore. In appearance, wrought iron can be fibrous and softer than cast iron. Wrought iron is incredibly malleable allowing it to be heard and reheated to be worked into various shapes, often getting stronger the more it is changed.
Similarities
Both cast iron and wrought iron are strong and can be resistant to fatigue. Wrought iron was also used in construction before the advent of the steel industry. Corrosion is also a common problem between the two. Corrosion occurs when bare surfaces are exposed to oxygen in the presence of moisture. To prevent corrosion most iron products are covered to protect them.
Choose Hercules Custom Iron
Whether you would like your iron fence to be repaired or would like an iron fence the pros at Hercules Custom Iron have the expertise and are ready to help. For more information and to learn how we can meet your custom fencing needs, contact Hercules Custom Iron online or give us at 1-800-331-2590. We will ensure the investment you’re making serves your family and friends for years to come. For updates or to see projects we are working on, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Youtube, Google+, and Pinterest.