ADI was discovered almost 50 years ago and a lot of research has been done on it since then.

ADI offers unique properties by virtue of the large amounts of thermally stable retained austenite present in the resultant microstructure. RA is responsible for imparting transformation induced plasticity to ADI. Typically ADI will exhibit a minimum elongation of 9% at a tensile value of 900N/mm2. This is much superior to pearlitic /martensitic ductile irons & cast irons. Moreover the work hardening of the surface under stress also imparts superior wear properties to ADI. Due to TRIP, ADI also has good fatigue & impact properties. Needless to say that the cost of ADI will always be attractive, as the cast route is being used. Today ADI is being used for earth mover parts, crank shafts, ring gears, chassis parts & the list is growing. ADI exhibits an ausferrite microstructure, this is critical for achieving success with ADI. Properly processed ADI presents a great avenue for both cost reduction & value addition.