Image analysis automation of spheroidal cast iron

The possibility of fully automating the image processing activity on spheroidal cast iron was evaluated, with the aim of obtaining a quantitative analysis of its constitutive elements. The procedure allows further relations with process reliability and product quality. Concerning the matrix, ferrite and pearlite contents were evaluated; concerning graphite, the size, shape and number of the spheroids were determined. Spheroidal cast iron images were obtained by specially developed casting experiments and by analysis of industrial cases. In order to extend the applicability of the proposed method, different classes of spheroidal cast iron were considered and specific analyses were conducted in different conditions of brightness, acid attack and sensitivity of the photographic paper, thus estimating the influence of each factor on output variables.