Although it is incorrectly referred to as “bar iron” or “rotten iron”, the correct term is “wrought iron”. The word “wrought” comes from the verb “to work” and wrought iron implies “worked iron” or “forged iron”. Historically, wrought iron was worked by blacksmiths, using traditional techniques such as hammers and anvils to create high-end “decorative wrought ironwork”.

What is black iron?

Black iron is a specific term given to a particular type of unit. More commonly known as “black iron pipe”, black iron is commonly used in fire sprinklers due to its high heat resistance. It can also be found in water supply lines, as it can withstand almost any form of water damage. This metal is very dark in color and is formed from iron oxide. This is why it is often referred to as black iron.

This may sound a lot like cast iron, but there is one big difference. Cast iron is melted and shaped, while black iron is a wrought iron that is heated and machined into its current shape.

What is cast iron?

Cast iron is usually referred to as gray cast iron. Due to its high carbon content (about 3% compared to 0.15% for wrought iron), it tends to have a brittle and hard surface. Cast iron is made by remelting pig iron, and often large amounts of scrap iron and steel scrap. Once melting is complete, the molten iron is poured into a mold for forming. Thus, once the mold is ready, it is ready for mass production.

Although the difference is not visible to the naked eye, the difference in quality and value is enormous. When wrought or bent or welded, wrought iron is soft, while cast iron is not. Cast iron is more fragile and breaks easily, while wrought iron will bend rather than break. In addition, wrought iron can be welded and galvanized very easily, while cast iron cannot.

At KC Fabricators, we have the capability to work with black iron to form it into its needed shape. We are a Wrought Black manufacturer.