The study considers the theoretical and technological aspects of the friction units’ resource increasing made of ferritic-pearlitic gray cast iron. It is found that chemical and thermal treatment has the best combination of criteria by the integrated technical and economic analysis for the cast iron parts’ hardening methods. The methods of the cast iron hardening used in practice are not applicable in the real production conditions. It happens because of the technological processes’ complexity and the equipment. Alternatively, the hardened layer thickness does not exceed 0.3 mm. The study considers the main aspects of the new technology application for the surface hardening, The recommendations for its application are formulated. They depend on the intended service of the part. The technical level of the offered solutions is estimated in comparison with traditional technologies of cast iron hardening.