<p>Solution strengthened ferritic ductile iron is a grade of ductile iron where the ferritic matrix is solution strengthened by silicon. The addition of silicon results in a combination of higher mechanical properties and higher elongation as compared to standard grades of ductile iron. Some research suggests silicon solution strengthened ferritic ductile iron (SSFDI) grades can result in a 10-50% machining cost savings compared to conventional grades. Although these grades can result in lower machining costs, some grades have an increased base cost in the raw material form. For example, 500-14 SSFDI and 600-10 SSFDI ductile iron grades can be 1 to 4% higher in base casting costs over comparable conventional grades. An overall lack of machining knowledge has impeded the growth of 500-14 SSFDI and 600-10 SSFDI in North American markets, due to machining costs being kept at conventional grade speeds and feeds.</p>