Material selection is a critical aspect of product design and development, especially when dealing with durable products in the construction and industrial sectors. The material used to manufacture a part must be compatible with its functionality and technical requirements, while providing optimal durability for the duration of the product life cycle. Meanwhile, cost and manufacturability considerations are factored in to make sure a quality product can be offered at the required volume for a competitive price. Manufacturers use various methods for determining the ideal material and manufacturing process to use in producing a particular part, from 3D modeling and simulation software to prototyping and performance testing.

 J.R. Hoe utilizes 3D modeling software to evaluate material properties and design new products.

 

Downspout boots are a multi-functional product, required to not only provide downspout protection but also serve as a flow-efficient drainage connection and an aesthetically pleasing architectural feature that will maintain its appearance for many years. In assessing the technical requirements of downspout boots there is one material that stands out in satisfying all functional and aesthetic qualities of the product: ASTM A48 Class 30B Gray Iron.

 

Known for its compressive strength, castability, hardness and wear resistance, ASTM A48 Class 30B Gray Iron is among the most widely specified cast metals for construction and industrial applications. The physical characteristics of this specific grade of iron and the functional requirements of downspout boots are mutually compatible and optimized in the following ways.

 

Durability – due to its graphitic microstructure, gray iron offers the unique combination of excel lent impact resistance, hardness and wear resistance to withstand significant repeated impact over time without failure. In addition, gray iron is fully resistant to corrosion when exposed to the elements making it ideal for architectural and construction applications.

 

Product Engineering – high -carbon content and silicon in cast irons give them excellent castability. ASTM A48 Class 30B gray iron in particular has a high degree of fluidity in the casting process combined with low reactivity to molding materials, which enables it to be cast into shapes with complex geometry. This advantageous characteristic is utilized in designing the downspout boot outlet to provide a flow-efficient transition from the rectangular downspout to the round drainage pipe.

 

Aesthetic Appeal –the material properties of cast iron allow for a high degree of refinement in product design as compared to fabricated steel and plastic downspout adapters. Well-designed cast iron downspout boots provide a sleek and attractive appearance that will endure for the life of the building.  Bare cast iron is fully resistant to weathering and offers a naturally beautiful finish. Where painting is required cast iron is also suitable for liquid paint or electrostatic powder coating.

 

 J.R. Hoe cast iron downspout boots offer excellent material strength, flow-efficiency, and aesthetic appeal.

 

Cast iron is the only material that successfully meets all of the aesthetic and functional qualities that a downspout boot requires. J.R. Hoe proudly manufactures its industry leading product line of downspout boots from ASTM A48 Class 30B gray iron. Using in house product design and engineering capabilities J.R. Hoe downspout boots are carefully designed to offer unrivaled durability, flow-efficiency and aesthetic appeal.