Austempered Ductile Iron (ADI)

Typical ADI Application

Austempered Ductile Iron (ADI) is the newest member of the family of nodular irons. Although somewhat more expensive to produce, ADI’s mechanical properties are nothing short of amazing. Four times stronger than Gray Iron and twice as strong as regular Ductile Iron, the material still retains excellent ductility. An added bonus is that the material is very hard giving it excellent wear resistance.

The material can be used to design high strength castings much lighter than previously thought possible. ADI’s strength to weight ratio and fatigue properties exceed those of aluminum. ADI is a legitimate substitute in many applications for more expensive steel castings and even forgings. Bowmanville Foundry produces 5 grades of ADI exhibiting varying degrees of strength and ductility.

ADI is typically used for castings requiring very high strength and/or wear resistance. ADI is also used where lightweight is desired. ADI can be used anywhere as a lightweight substitute for ductile iron, cast steel, or forged steel. Shafts, gears, conveyor parts, drive-line components are all typical applications.

The Bowmanville Foundry has extensive experience in producing Malleable Iron, Ductile Iron, Austempered Ductile Iron (ADI), Gray Iron, and Wear Resistant Irons, and can recommend the appropriate material for your application.

For more information please refer to our Metal Grade Guide and Technical Data for Iron Grades or click below to contact us.