Help identifying type of metal

admin

Guys I have a  tool rest  for a wood lathe to fix. the tool rest was made in the mid 1950's The round "rod shaped"  base,  snapped in two just under the tool rest part.The broken  edge of the metal  looks grainy and is gray in color maybe dark gray. I have nothing to compare it to.When held under light it appears that there are very small  diamonds or white crystals reflecting light. The entire piece has a rough grainy texture, on the outside,  not smooth like rolled steel. But is smooth as steel is when filed or ground.I am leaning towards  the metal being Gray cast iron ......or towards White cast iron. Am I correct?The tool rest is from a mid 1950's Shop Smith.What rod  and rod #, do you recomend to weld it with?Would you "V" the area and preheat both pieces to red color prior to welding?  And allow to air cool?  Or ________? Thanks I await your replies.Flywelder2-25-07
Reply:You can hit it with a grinder in a obscure area and look for sparks.  note the color if any.  Its probably cast and have to be heated up and welded with a nickel rod.  Lets wait for the experts though..  BTW, a pic speaks a thousand words around here..Various GrindersVictor Journeyman torch200cf Acet. 250cf oxygenLincoln 175 plus/alpha2 gunLincoln v205t tigLincoln 350mpEsab 650 plasmaWhen you can get up in the morning, Its a good day.Live each day like its your last.
Reply:check with a magnet as well, and try scaping it. see what you get for cuttings. Probably cast iron, but might also be an aluminum based material. Probably not zinc base (pot).