What kind of system benefits from the use of cast iron due to its properties?

Casting iron is particularly beneficial in ash handling systems due to several key properties of the material. Cast iron is known for its excellent wear resistance, which is crucial in applications where it is subjected to the abrasive nature of ash particles. The hardness of cast iron makes it suitable for handling materials that can cause erosion and wear in other types of materials or systems.

Additionally, cast iron possesses good tensile strength and can withstand significant pressures, which is important when dealing with the high volumes and varying consistencies of ash. The durability and ability to maintain structural integrity under heavy loads make cast iron an ideal choice for components such as conveyors, chutes, and hoppers in ash handling systems.

In contrast, while cast iron might have uses in the other systems mentioned, it is not as prominent as in ash handling. Heating systems typically benefit from materials that have higher thermal conductivity, while drainage systems often require materials that promote smooth flow and are resistant to corrosion. Water supply systems mostly rely on materials that can ensure no leachate of harmful substances, where modern options might be preferred over cast iron.