Murat Alkanat: High purity pig iron provides assurance of quality and reliability in foundries

Alkanat referred to the production methods and historical background of ''pig iron, a high carbon iron alloy. He explained that the term originated in English, as molten iron was once cast into sand molds resembling a sow with piglets, leading to the continued use of the name ‘pig iron.’'

Alkanat stated that high purity pig iron has significantly lower impurity levels compared to standard pig iron, noting that this characteristic directly impacts the quality, consistency, and customer confidence in cast parts.

Alkanat stated that in the automotive sector, OEMs do not rely solely on international standards but also establish their own specifications. ‘Manufacturers such as Daimler, Volkswagen, Ford, and BMW demand very strict criteria to prevent microstructural defects in cast parts caused by impurities. This increases the strategic importance of high purity pig iron,’

Alkanat emphasized that in the wind energy sector, the expectation for toughness at low temperatures and resistance to cracking is also a key priority, noting that not only general standards but also manufacturer specific specifications come into play.

Alkanat noted that high purity pig iron also stands out in the machinery, industrial, and defense industries, stating: ‘Keeping impurity levels low ensures durability, machinability, and microstructural homogeneity. This, in turn, enhances the lifespan and reliability of critical components.’

Concluding his speech with the message ‘The right raw material, a stronger future,’ Alkanat emphasized that high purity pig iron is a strategic material that enhances quality and reliability, increases customer satisfaction, and provides sustainable competitiveness across many industries, from automotive and energy to machinery and defense.”