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The mechanical and physical properties of gray iron are governed in part by the shape, size, amount, and distribution of
the graphite flakes. A method for evaluating graphite flake distribution and size is given in ASTM A 247, and the
metallography of cast irons is discussed in Ref 7, 8, 9.
There are five graphite flake distributions: A to E (Fig. 4). Type A graphite flakes are randomly distributed and oriented
throughout the iron matrix. This type of graphite is found in irons that solidify with a minimum amount of undercooling,
and type A is the structure desired if mechanical properties are to be optimized.
Fig. 5 Examples of type A (a), type B (b), and type D (c) graphite from foundry-produced gray irons. As-
polished. 100×
Type C graphite occurs in hypereutectic irons, particularly those with a high carbon content. Type C graphite precipitates
during the primary freezing of the iron. Kish graphite, as it is often called, appears as straight, coarse plates. It greatly