We will try to elucidate the material used in the manufacture of manhole covers in this week’s blog.  Cast iron or steel, as we know, has both advantages and disadvantages. This said it is important for the casting material of manhole covers to have both aesthetic as well as hygienic values. Knowledge of the strength of materials becomes necessary in this case. Now coming to ductile iron, it has both pros and cons in the casting of manhole covers.  Therefore, what are the advantages of ductile iron over other metals while casting manhole covers?

Bendable yet unbreakable: Made from materials such as silicon, phosphorus, magnesium, sulphur and more, ductile iron is used to strengthen iron covers. This makes it a highly durable material.  One more highlight of ductile iron is that it is easily bendable without breakage risk.

Compressive strength: Whilst talking about the strength, the compressive strength of that metal should be considered. In other words, it is the pressure which a metal can endure or withstand so as to change its shape. The ductile has a higher compressive strength in comparison to other metals used in making manhole covers, making it the best alternative for the same.

Corrosion-resistant: The exposure of manholes to the vagaries of nature including hail, frost, rain, sun and others poses greater risk of damage. Polishing or applying a fresh coat of powder to iron can make it corrosion-resistant.  For instance, steel has higher corrosion effects, and, therefore it is recommended to use cast iron in the manufacture of manhole covers.

Cost –effectiveness: The most important consideration when it comes to the manufacture of manhole is cost-effectiveness.  Ductile iron, in comparison to other metals, costs less, and therefore is popular in the manufacturing industry. While this ranks as an important factor that most manufacturers look into, there is no doubt that this metal has an edge over the others in terms of performance.