Cast Iron Vs. Wrought Iron

What's The Difference Between Cast Iron & Wrought Iron?

Although people mistakenly call it “rod iron” or “rot iron,” the correct term is “wrought iron.” The word “wrought” comes from the verb “work”, wrought iron means “worked iron” or “forged iron”. Historically wrought iron has been worked by blacksmiths, using traditional techniques like hammers and anvils to make high-end "Decorative Wrought Ironwork."

Cast iron usually refers to grey cast iron. It tends to be brittle and hard on the surface because of its high carbon content (about 3% whereas 0.15% in wrought iron). Cast iron is made by re-melting pig iron, often along with substantial quantities of scrap iron and scrap steel. After melting is complete, the molten iron is poured into shaping molds. So once molds are ready, mass production is possible.

The difference in quality and value is enormous although there is no visible difference to the naked eyes. Wrought iron is soft to forge or bend or weld, whereas cast iron is not. Cast iron is more fragile and easy to break, whereas wrought iron will bend rather than break. Additionally, wrought iron can be welded and galvanized very easily, whereas cast iron cannot.