ASME Practice Exam 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The recommended maximum temperature for the use of cast iron in handhole plates is generally around 450°F. Cast iron is a material that, while beneficial for its strength and castability, also has its limitations regarding thermal stability. At elevated temperatures, cast iron can start to experience changes in its mechanical properties and could become more brittle, which may lead to failure under stress or load conditions.

In applications like handhole plates, which are often found in pressure vessels or heat exchangers, it is crucial to maintain the structural integrity of the material. Using cast iron at temperatures higher than its specified limits could compromise its performance and safety. Hence, a maximum of 450°F is considered to be a safe operational threshold, ensuring the longevity and reliability of components made from this material.

The other temperature options proposed (300°F, 500°F, and 400°F) either do not align with industry standards or risk compromising the material properties of cast iron at elevated temperatures. For instance, while 400°F might seem acceptable, it still falls below the ideal maximum of 450°F, and higher temperatures like 500°F pose significant risks of brittleness and failure. Therefore, the choice of 450°F as the recommended maximum is rooted in ensuring safety and optimal