Ductile iron shouldn ’ t be confused with grey iron , which can suffer from heat induced cracking - when molten cast grey iron solidifies , some of the carbon present forms into graphite ‘ flakes ’, which can lead to crack points . Ductile iron made from continuous cast bar has a high tensile strength - the graphite forms into spherical shapes , through adding magnesium , which helps prevent crack creation and provides stability .
Why is the carrier important on a floating disc ? It ’ s all the weight : aftermarket carriers are made from the lightest materials possible to reduce unsprung weight . Some use a billet alloy centre with a chrome / nickel overplate as they can withstand some bending . Most OE discs use a cheaper , heavier pressed aluminium centre . Of course , many classic discs are one piece and don ’ t feature a carrier .
Why are there different shape / pattern discs ? This is chiefly for heat dissipation and , of course , cosmetic appeal comes into it as well . Galfer originally patented the often seen ‘ Wave ’ design for off-road riding as the design provided better pad and disc cleaning . Aftermarket wave-type design discs for more modern classics now claim to offer self-cleaning
KIWI RIDER 71