Question 1

What is ढलवाँ लोहा (Cast Iron)?

Accepted Answer

लोहा (Lohā), or cast iron, is a ferrous alloy with a high carbon content (2-4%) [1], historically significant in Indic architecture from the medieval period onwards. Derived from iron ore deposits across the Indian subcontinent, including regions known for *lauha khanija* (iron ore minerals), it was traditionally processed using methods documented in ancient texts. Cast iron exhibits high compressive strength (400-600 MPa) but lower tensile strength (150-250 MPa) and is prone to corrosion. Its density ranges from 7.0-7.3 g/cm³ [1].

Used extensively during the Colonial Period and the Industrial Era, *lohā* found applications in structural components like columns and beams, and decorative elements such as railings and gates. Heritage sites featuring cast iron require careful conservation due to its susceptibility to rust. Restoration efforts often involve removing corrosion products and applying protective coatings. Traditional names include *kaccha loha* (raw iron) and *pighla loha* (molten iron). The material's durability is a key consideration in preserving architectural heritage [2], [3].

Question 2

What type of material is ढलवाँ लोहा (Cast Iron)?

Accepted Answer

ढलवाँ लोहा (Cast Iron) is classified as Metal, Ferrous Alloy. Key properties include Compressive strength: 400-600 MPa, Tensile strength: 150-250 MPa, Density: 7.0-7.3 g/cm³.

Question 3

Where is ढलवाँ लोहा (Cast Iron) used?

Accepted Answer

ढलवाँ लोहा (Cast Iron) is commonly used in India. It is sourced from Iron ore mines, Smelting furnaces.

Question 4

How is ढलवाँ लोहा (Cast Iron) used in heritage architecture?

Accepted Answer

ढलवाँ लोहा (Cast Iron) is used for Decorative elements (railings, gates), Structural components (columns, beams), Pipes and fittings, Machine parts in heritage architecture. It is found in 1 heritage sites.

Question 5

What are the conservation considerations for ढलवाँ लोहा (Cast Iron)?

Accepted Answer

Conservation of ढलवाँ लोहा (Cast Iron) requires attention to Susceptible to rust and corrosion and Requires protective coatings (paint, rust inhibitors). Proper maintenance is essential for preserving heritage structures using this material.

Title	ढलवाँ लोहा (Cast Iron) 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site) Rare Ḍhalavām̐ lohā Cast Iron 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site)
Description	लोहा (Lohā), or cast iron, is a ferrous alloy with a high carbon content (2-4%) [1], historically significant in Indic architecture from the medieval period onwards. Derived from iron ore deposits across the Indian subcontinent, including regions known for lauha khanija (iron ore minerals), it was traditionally processed using methods documented in ancient texts. Cast iron exhibits high compressive strength (400-600 MPa) but lower tensile strength (150-250 MPa) and is prone to corrosion. Its density ranges from 7.0-7.3 g/cm³ [1]. Used extensively during the Colonial Period and the Industrial Era, lohā found applications in structural components like columns and beams, and decorative elements such as railings and gates. Heritage sites featuring cast iron require careful conservation due to its susceptibility to rust. Restoration efforts often involve removing corrosion products and applying protective coatings. Traditional names include kaccha loha (raw iron) and pighla loha (molten iron). The material's durability is a key consideration in preserving architectural heritage [2], [3].
Also Known As	Cast Iron Ḍhalavām̐ lohā Cast Iron Pig Iron Foundry Iron कच्चा लोहा पिघला लोहा लोह धातु வார்ப்பிரும்பு (Tamil) పోత ఇనుము (Telugu) ಬೆಂಕಿಯಿಟ್ಟ ಕಬ್ಬಿಣ (Kannada) അലുമിനിയം ഇരുമ്പ് (Malayalam)
Tags	लोहा Loha Cast Iron Iron Metal Corrosion Ferrous Alloy Construction Material
Material ID	`INHFMAT-025671053-20-11-25-LC`
URI	https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/cast-iron
API Endpoint	`https://www.inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/cast-iron`
Total Sites	1
Primary Sites	0
Created	November 20, 2025
Last Updated	November 28, 2025

ढलवाँ लोहा (Cast Iron)

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Heritage Sites (1)

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