Iron is a heavy, magnetic, and relatively soft transition metal. In metallurgy, the term rarely refers to the pure element. Instead, it denotes a family of commercial alloys with high carbon content, such as cast iron or pig iron, which are brittle and cannot be forged. It is distinguished from steel, which has a lower, tightly controlled carbon content that allows it to be hardened and worked.
Heard on the job
The old bridge supports are poured out of grey iron, so don't try to weld them without preheating.
Do not mix it up with
- Steel: Iron typically refers to high-carbon cast alloys that are brittle, while steel has lower carbon and can be forged.