Which Has a Longer Lifespan: Cast Iron or Aluminum Alloy Engine Blocks?
1 Answers
Compared to aluminum alloy engine blocks, cast iron ones have a longer service life due to the significantly higher density of iron, which makes them much more robust. Advantages and Disadvantages of Cast Iron Engines: Cast iron engines have lower manufacturing technical requirements and mature processes. They can withstand high-temperature and high-pressure working environments in actual operation. The downside is their excessive weight and inferior heat dissipation compared to aluminum alloy engines. Advantages and Disadvantages of Aluminum Alloy Engines: Aluminum alloy engines are lightweight, effectively reducing the engine's own weight, and have excellent heat dissipation. However, their manufacturing process requirements are slightly higher, making them more expensive than cast iron engines. The main drawback is that they are prone to deformation under heat during operation, leading to increased clearance between the cylinder wall and piston over prolonged use, resulting in significant power leakage. Additionally, aluminum alloy engines cannot be overly stressed for maximum power output. However, with technological advancements, the high-temperature resistance of aluminum alloy engines is now comparable to that of cast iron engines.
