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Pizza ovens can be constructed from a variety of materials such as brick, clay, steel and cast iron - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question a - 2017
Question a
Pizza ovens can be constructed from a variety of materials such as brick, clay, steel and cast iron. The pizza oven shown is manufactured from cast iron. (i) Explai... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Pizza ovens can be constructed from a variety of materials such as brick, clay, steel and cast iron - Leaving Cert Engineering - Question a - 2017
Step 1
Explain two reasons why cast iron is used in the manufacture of this pizza oven.
Answer
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Heat Retention: Cast iron has a high density, which means it can hold heat for a longer period than steel. This characteristic allows the pizza oven to maintain a consistent temperature, which is crucial for cooking pizzas evenly.
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Durability: Cast iron is resistant to wear and tear, making it a durable choice for the high-temperature environment of a pizza oven. Its ability to withstand intense heat and prevent warping ensures a long lifespan for the oven.
Step 2
Distinguish between the composition of cast iron and the composition of low carbon steel.
Answer
Cast iron typically contains 2.5% to 4.0% carbon along with varying amounts of silicon, manganese, and sulfur. This composition contributes to its brittleness and low melting point, while also providing excellent casting properties.
In contrast, low carbon steel contains up to 0.3% carbon and has a different range of properties, such as good machinability, ductility, and the ability to be easily welded. The lower carbon content in steel results in a stronger material compared to cast iron.