Cast iron is an alloy of iron and carbon; it is hard, brittle, and non-malleable. The concentration of carbon varies from 2% to 5%. The alloy has lower melting temperature and requires less refining when compared with steel, which has a typical carbon content of 0.5%.The various types of iron alloys widely used for casting include gray iron, ductile iron, and malleable iron.

Computer numeric control (CNC) machining centers are based on the principle of using computer-based machine tools for various industrial machinery, such as lathes,grinders, mills, and routers. CNC machining centers are equipped with automatic tool changers and a table to hold the product firmly in place during the process.Vertical machining centers are used in high precision work and widely adopted in the automotive and aerospace industries. These centers are gaining popularity across a broad range of industries due to their low cost. Vertical machining centers are seeing tremendous improvement in terms of performance in the last few years due to continuous advances in technologies. These factors will drive the demand for vertical CNC machining centers during the forecast period.

Horizontal machining centers are configured with a spindle placed in horizontal orientation, facilitating uninterrupted manufacturing. A two-pallet work changer can be attached on one side of the work surface, while the CNC machining center is at work with another workpiece at a different surface. Gravity pulls the workpiece out from the machine after completion, allowing lesser clean-up time and longer tool life.The CNC horizontal machining centers have the capability of performing machining operations on objects thrice the size of those handled by vertical machining centers.