Correlation of the Damping Capacity of Cast Iron with its Mechanical Properties and Microstructure

Abstract

Cast irons were produced with variations in quantity and shape of the free graphite inclusions and in matrix structure in order to determine their effect on the damping and dynamic modulus characteristics in both shear and direct loading conditions. Static mechanical behaviour, represented by the strength, the ductility, the initial modulus and the 0·1 per cent proof stress was obtained in shear and in tension. A significant improvement in mechanical properties could be obtained for a given damping capacity by ensuring that the matrix was pearlitic and not ferritic. Otherwise, high damping could only be obtained at the expense of the mechanical properties and vice versa.