Taiwan Launches First ADI Pilot Plant — MIRDC Drives High-Value Innovation in the Cast Iron Industry

To meet the increasing demand for high-precision, high-rigidity, and lightweight mechanical components, the Metal Industries Research & Development Centre (MIRDC) in Taiwan has established the nation’s first Austempered Ductile Iron (ADI) Pilot Production Platform. This facility optimizes the heat treatment and smart inspection processes and boasts a maximum processing capacity of 600 kilograms.

According to MIRDC, traditional cast iron often relies on heat treatment to enhance mechanical properties. In light of global net-zero carbon goals, new product development must balance energy consumption with material innovation. This platform incorporates advanced features including a high-temperature furnace, salt bath furnace, industrial washer, and an AI-driven microstructure recognition system. It ensures a precise temperature control accuracy of ±6°C, and its real-time monitoring system provides complete visibility of internal temperature distribution to ensure consistent quality.

The system also uses a bridge transfer mechanism that moves materials from high- to low-temperature zones rapidly, improving processing efficiency without compromising treatment results. A tiered cleaning unit helps separate and recycle cleaning agents, cutting consumable usage and operating costs. The AI metallographic inspection module accelerates microstructure analysis with over 90% accuracy, reducing inspection time from 30 minutes to just 10.

MIRDC noted that ADI is considered an “upgraded version” of ductile iron, offering enhanced strength and toughness due to its specialized heat treatment. It is also recognized globally for its lower carbon footprint, making it a highly attractive material in sustainable manufacturing. Industry research forecasts the global ADI market to reach US$28.35 billion by 2027.

This pilot platform has already proven successful in the solar energy sector, where ADI has replaced aluminum bronze in critical components. The result: a 60% increase in tensile strength, production cost cut to one-third, and energy consumption reduced by 3.5 times. The platform is also adaptable for various applications including agricultural machinery, rail systems, and mechanical equipment.

MIRDC emphasized it will continue to leverage public R&D resources to advance ADI processes and applications, localize key materials and equipment, and support the industry's alignment with Taiwan’s national net-zero emissions policy.