Abstract: A compacted graphite iron brake component for use in a braking system having a final composition of: 3.0 to about 4.0 percent carbon; 2.15 to about 2.60 percent silicon; 0.40 to about 0.90 manganese; and the balance iron. The brake component having a frictionally engageable portion with a microstructure of compacted graphite disposed in a pearlitic matrix.

Abstract: A compacted graphite iron brake component for use in a braking system having a final composition of: 3.0 to about 4.0 percent carbon; 2.15 to about 2.60 percent silicon; 0.40 to about 0.90 manganese; and the balance iron. The brake component having a frictionally engageable portion with a microstructure of compacted graphite disposed in a pearlitic matrix.

Abstract: A compacted graphite iron brake component for use in a braking system having a final composition of: 3.0 to about 4.0 percent carbon; 2.15 to about 2.60 percent silicon; 0.40 to about 0.90 manganese; and the balance iron. The brake component having a frictionally engageable portion with a microstructure of compacted graphite disposed in a pearlitic matrix.

Abstract: A bushing cap used to close a gap in a liquid cooled bushing which surrounds a coil contained in a channel induction furnace. The coil, bushing and bushing cap is further surrounded by a thin refractory layer which is further surrounded by a molten metal loop. The bushing cap and bushing are liquid cooled to maintain a substantial uniform thermal gradient about the thin refractory layer surrounding the bushing and bushing cap. Preferably, this is accomplished by way of a bushing cap having a cooling member attached to a cover and mounted within the bushing gap. A cooling fluid is passed through both the cooling member of the bushing cap and cooling channels within the bushing to maintain a substantial uniform thermal gradient about the thin refractory layer.