In the past, most manhole covers were made of steel. However, with economic development, ductile iron manhole covers have gradually become the preferred choice. This shift has raised questions: Why is ductile iron now favored? Today, as a manufacturer of ductile iron covers, we will provide a comparative analysis to determine which material performs better.
Ductile Iron: A Modern Material
While steel remains ubiquitous in daily life, ductile iron offers distinct advantages. Steel is prized for its smooth surface finish, making it ideal for decorative applications that enhance aesthetic appeal. In contrast, ductile iron, though lacking the same surface polish, excels in applications requiring high smoothness, such as oil transportation pipelines.
Key Advantages of Ductile Iron
1. Superior Ductility: Ductile iron resists deformation under heavy ground pressure, outperforming steel in durability.
2. Corrosion Resistance: Unlike steel, ductile iron is highly resistant to corrosion, ensuring long-term structural integrity.
3. Cost-Effective Production: Ductile iron pipes are more economical to manufacture than steel pipes, making them a practical choice for water supply systems.
Application in Plumbing Systems
Modern households often use polyethylene plastic pipes, which pose health risks over prolonged use. Ductile iron pipes, however, prevent scale buildup on inner walls, safeguarding water quality and promoting public health. This makes them a reliable and sustainable solution for infrastructure.
Conclusion
While steel and ductile iron each have specialized uses, ductile iron's combination of flexibility, corrosion resistance, and cost efficiency positions it as the superior choice for critical applications like manhole covers and water pipelines. Its adoption reflects a commitment to safety, durability, and environmental responsibility.