Which type of hacksaw blade is best suited for sawing cast iron?

When sawing cast iron, the most effective choice is a hard blade. Hard blades are designed to cut through tougher materials like cast iron due to their rigidity and durability. They are constructed to maintain their sharp edge while handling the stress of cutting dense and brittle materials. This is particularly important with cast iron, which is known for its hardness and can quickly dull a softer blade.

The composition of a hard blade allows it to effectively penetrate the rough texture of cast iron, providing cleaner cuts and reducing the likelihood of breakage or chipping during the sawing process. Moreover, the hardness of the blade helps in achieving a more precise cut, which is essential for plumbing applications where accurate fitting is crucial.

In contrast, flexible blades are better suited for materials that require more maneuverability and finer curves, while bi-metal blades, although versatile, do not specifically excel in applications requiring the cutting of dense metals like cast iron. Coarse blades, while they might provide a faster cut, may lead to rough edges and lack the durability needed for thorough cutting of such a material.