Class 2 (2nd Engineer) MEKG 📅 Jul 2025

Exam Question

Cast iron is most widely used metal after steel in Marine Engineering. Most cast irons consist of graphite in steel like matrix. Discuss the variation of properties that may arise with reference to pearlitic grey cast iron and spherical grey cast iron. Describe briefly the treatment necessary to produce these two types of Iron. (16)

Reference Answer

### Introduction to Cast Iron
Cast iron is a ferrous alloy with a high carbon content (typically 2.1% to 4.0%), which ensures solidification with a eutectic phase. Its properties are primarily determined by the form and distribution of free carbon (graphite) within a steel-like matrix. The two principal forms of graphite are flakes, as seen in grey cast iron, and spheroids (or nodules), as seen in spherical grey (SG) or ductile cast iron. The matrix itself can be ferritic, pearlitic, or a combination, further influencing the final properties.
This answer will discuss the variation in properties and the production treatments for Pearlitic Grey Cast Iron and Spherical Grey Cast Iron.
---

Full answer on MeoMock — surveyor-grade reference answers for 7,000+ written exam questions.

View plans Browse library

← Browse more questions

Prepare on Android — MeoMock on Google Play