Ferro silicon is an essential ferroalloy composed primarily of iron and silicon, typically containing 15% to 90% silicon by weight. It is a grey, metallic substance used extensively in the steel and iron industries due to its critical role as a deoxidizer and alloying agent. The presence of silicon in ferro silicon makes it particularly valuable in processes that require improved strength, corrosion resistance, and magnetic properties.
Ferro silicon is produced in electric arc furnaces by reducing silica (SiO₂), usually in the form of quartz, with carbon sources such as coke or coal in the presence of iron. The basic reaction involves heating silica and carbon with iron at high temperatures (about 2000°C), resulting in the formation of molten ferro silicon. The amount of silicon in the final product can be controlled by adjusting the ratios of raw materials and the temperature during the smelting process.
The iron used in this process is often scrap or pig iron, and the carbon serves to extract the oxygen from silica, leaving behind silicon to bond with iron. The molten alloy is then tapped from the furnace, cooled, and crushed into manageable pieces for commercial distribution.
Ferro silicon is known for its high melting point, strong deoxidizing power, and ability to reduce metal oxides. Its silicon content influences its properties—higher silicon percentages generally improve corrosion resistance and reduce density. The alloy is also non-combustible and relatively stable at room temperature, making it safe and easy to handle during transport and storage.
One of the most significant uses of ferro silicon is in steelmaking. It acts as a deoxidizer, removing oxygen from molten steel and thus preventing unwanted chemical reactions that could weaken the final product. It also improves the strength, hardness, and elasticity of steel.
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In cast iron production, ferro silicon promotes the formation of graphite instead of iron carbides, enhancing machinability and overall casting quality. High-silicon ferro silicon is used in the manufacture of silicon steel for electrical applications, such as transformers and motors, due to its excellent magnetic properties.
Additionally, ferro silicon is employed in the production of magnesium by reducing dolomite, and in the creation of various specialty steels and alloys where precise control of silicon content is essential.
Ferro silicon plays a vital role in modern metallurgy, offering a cost-effective and efficient means to enhance steel and iron quality. With ongoing developments in materials engineering and metallurgical processes, the demand for ferro silicon remains strong across various industrial sectors.
Use as deoxidizer for steel
Alloying in product of cast iron &steel
Used as nucleation for casting
| Size | S | P | C | Al | Si |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0-3 | 0.04 Max | 0.04 Max | 0.2 Max | 1.8 Max | 73-75 |
| 3-10 | 0.04 Max | 0.04 Max | 0.2 Max | 1.8 Max | 73-75 |
| 10-60 | 0.04 Max | 0.04 Max | 0.2 Max | 1.8 Max | 73-75 |
High quality, Reasonable, Competitive and an Exceptional price as below specification
We suggest Micro Silica for making High Strength and Light weight Concrete. These materials have different derivations and technical characteristics.
Properties: Micro Silica consists of fine vitreous particles with a surface area on the order of 215,280 ft²/lb (20,000 m²/kg) when measured by nitrogen adsorption techniques, with particles approximately one hundredth the size of the average cement particle which helps it to avoid cracks, corrosion and consume less water.
| Test Item | Standard | Test Result |
|---|---|---|
| SiO2 | 85% min | 87.94% |
| Moisture (at 110°C) | 3.0% max | 0.3% |
| Hydraulic index (7 days) | min 105 | 105 |
| Bulk density | - | 194 |
| Size (<45 μm) | min 90% | 96.3% |
| Fe2O3+Al2O3 | - | 4.55% |
| CaO | - | 3.36% |
| MgO | - | 0.60% |
| SO3 | - | 1.36% |
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