Heat treatment:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_steel
Cast iron vs cast steel:

Cast iron has better compressive strength than steel

Cast steel is more inpact resistant that cast iron, this is due to its toughness.
Cast Iron:

1. Ductile cast iron

Much less brittle that other cast iron, even before heat treatment.
3.2-3.6% C and 2.2-2.8% Si with small percentage of nodulising elements..Mn,Mg,P and sulfur

2. Malleable cast iron

Require heat treatment for long periods and in very controlled conditions. Mostly replaced with
ductile cast iron.

3. White cast iron

This alloy is cooled more quickly than other cast irons, producing a molecule known as
cementite in its lattice. It is a brittle alloy but has excellent hardness and abrasion resistance. It is
often used in bearings and other high friction applications.

4. Gray cast iron

Has graphitic microstructure. It has excellent vibration damping capacity and great
machinability.
2.5-4%C and 1-3%Si.