Ferro Chrome (Ferrochromium) is an iron-based alloy primarily composed of chromium (Cr 50–70%) and iron. It may also contain small amounts of carbon, silicon, sulfur, and phosphorus as impurities.
Ferro chrome is widely used as a crucial alloying element in the production of stainless steel and special steels. It improves hardness, corrosion resistance, and wear resistance, making it essential in the steelmaking and foundry industries.
Ferrochrome composition
Chemical Composition % | |||||
Cr | C | Si | P | S | |
HC FeCr | 50-65 | 4-8 | 3max | 0.03max | 0.03max |
MC FeCr | 60-70 | 1.5-2.5 | 1.5max | 0.03max | 0.03max |
LC FeCr | 60-70 | 0.1-1 | 1.5max | 0.03max | 0.03max |
Micro-C FeCr | 60-70 | 0.1max | 1.0max | 0.03max | 0.03max |
Micro-C FeCr | 60-70 | 0.03-0.06 | 1.0max | 0.03max | 0.03max |
Classification of Ferro Chrome (High, Medium, Low, and Micro Carbon Ferrochrome)
Ferro Chrome (Ferrochromium) is categorized based on its carbon content, which significantly influences its application in steelmaking and casting. The main types include:
1. High Carbon Ferro Chrome
Carbon Content: 4%–8%
Application: High carbon ferrochrome is primarily used in the production of stainless steel and special steel. Its high carbon level makes it suitable for use as a reductant in the production of low carbon ferroalloys. It is also used in the manufacture of ball bearing steel and steel used in automotive parts.
2. Medium Carbon Ferro Chrome
Carbon Content: 0.5%–4%
Application: Medium carbon ferrochrome is typically used when the carbon level needs to be controlled but not minimized completely. It is often applied in the production of certain types of stainless steel and structural steels where moderate carbon content is acceptable.
3. Low Carbon Ferro Chrome
Carbon Content: 0.15%–0.5%
Application: Low carbon ferrochrome is essential for the production of stainless steel, acid-resistant steel, and other low-carbon chromium-containing alloys. It helps maintain steel purity and improves corrosion resistance without increasing carbon content.
4. Micro Carbon Ferro Chrome
Carbon Content: 0.06%–0.15%
Application: Micro carbon ferrochrome is used in the most demanding applications where even minimal carbon content can negatively affect the steel's properties. It is suitable for producing ultra-pure stainless steel, precision alloys, and other high-performance materials.
Application of Ferro chrome
Ferrochromium is a critical alloying material widely used in the steelmaking and welding industries due to its ability to introduce chromium into steel, enhancing hardness, wear resistance, corrosion resistance, and high-temperature performance.
1. High-Carbon Ferrochrome Applications
Steelmaking:
High-carbon ferrochrome is commonly used as an alloying agent in the production of:
Ball bearing steel (0.5%–1.45% Cr)
Tool steel and die steel (5%–12% Cr)
High-speed steel (3.8%–4.4% Cr)
Chromium significantly enhances hardness, toughness, and wear resistance in these steels.
Casting Industry:
In cast iron and cast steel production, high-carbon ferrochrome helps improve heat resistance and hardness, making it suitable for wear-resistant and high-temperature components.
Raw Material for Other Alloys:
It is also a starting material for the production of silicon chrome, as well as medium and low carbon ferrochrome via refining processes.
Welding Industry:
High-carbon ferrochrome powder is used in manufacturing welding electrodes, where it helps enhance weld metal hardness and wear resistance.
2. Medium and Low-Carbon Ferrochrome Applications
Medium and low-carbon ferrochrome is ideal when carbon control in steel is crucial. It is used in:
Medium and low-carbon structural steels
Carburizing steel
Gear steel
High-pressure blower blades
Valve plates and precision components
This type of ferrochrome provides balanced strength and toughness while maintaining low carbon levels, which is essential for performance-critical parts.
3. Micro-Carbon Ferrochrome Applications
Micro-carbon ferrochrome, with its ultra-low carbon content, is used in:
Stainless steel
Wear-resistant steel
Heat-resistant steel
It enables the production of clean, high-purity alloys where strict carbon limits are necessary, particularly in aerospace, petrochemical, and food-grade applications.
Why Choose Hongshun Ferro Chrome
1. Diverse Specifications to Meet Market Demands
Hongshun offers a wide range of ferrochrome products with chromium content from 55% to 75%, and carbon content options including 0.03%, 0.06%, and 0.1%, fully covering the current needs of different steelmaking and casting applications.
2. Strict Quality Control with International Certification
Hongshun has established a rigorous product quality management system to ensure that every batch of ferrochrome delivered meets both national standards and customer-specific requirements. Our products have passed the ISO 9001:2015 quality management certification, providing solid assurance for consistent quality.
3. Competitive Factory-Direct Pricing
All orders are shipped directly from our production base, eliminating middlemen and reducing your purchasing costs. Hongshun offers cost-effective pricing while maintaining high product standards.
4. Efficient and Professional Service
With years of experience in the alloy smelting industry, Hongshun’s expert team can help you quickly identify the most suitable ferrochrome product based on your needs. We provide customized solutions to help you save time, avoid detours, and ensure seamless procurement.