cast steel

Cast steel is an alloy of iron and carbon, with carbon content typically up to 2 percent. It is produced by melting scrap metal, often using induction or electric-arc furnaces, and then casting the molten steel into desired shapes. Unlike cast iron, which has a higher carbon content (2-4 percent) and is more brittle, steel is known for its versatility and range of mechanical properties.123

Steel foundries use heat-resistant molds and account for higher linear shrinkage compared to cast iron. Continuous casting is a common method, where liquid steel is poured into a water-cooled mold and withdrawn as a solid shell. Steel's properties can be further enhanced by adding alloying elements, leading to specialized types like high-strength low-alloy (HSLA) steels and tool steels, each designed for specific applications.2456