Is there an easy way to determine if a tool (such as an anvil cone) is made of cast steel vs. cast iron vs. ductile iron? The reason I ask is that this cone is cast steel according to the seller (because it rings):
http://www.ebay.com/itm/MINT-Mandrel-Cone-Hardy-W-1-1-4-Hardy-Shaft-Blacksmith-Anvil-Forge-NO-RESERVE-/200893723249?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item2ec632f271
However, it looks VERY similar (length of the hardy post, the placement of the serial (or whatever it is) near the bottom rim of the cone, the angle of the cone, as well as the surface texture) to this cone, which is advertised as ductile iron:
http://www.ebay.com/itm/Blacksmith-Tinsmith-Armor-Makers-Anvil-Cone-1-1-4-Hardy-/271153557630?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3f2202f07e
To summarize my questions:
1) In general, is it possible to tell different materials apart based on the surface texture of the casting, or is the surface texture a function of the mold rather than the poured material?
2) Does ductile iron ring like steel?
As a side note, are ductile iron tools worth buying?
Thanks