Abstract
For the new developed 2.0 and 2.2L engines, which were introduced in the passenger vehicles, engine designers needed an advanced cylinder block material that should be significantly stronger and stiffer than gray iron to meet severe engine power and torque requirements. The material also had to provide good NVH characteristics, be cost effective, and machinable for the mass application of other heavy-duty engines. This paper presents an overview of the development, properties, casting practices, and engine validation of enhanced compacted graphite iron (CGI). Optimum casting parameters were found for the desirable distribution of graphite and matrix. The characteristics of graphite precipitation versus cooling behavior and magnesium amount were also discussed. This work strongly suggested that the application of CGI could maximize the engine total performance and service life.