Alloys and Inoculants
HC and LC Ferrochrome
High-carbon (HC) and low-carbon (LC) ferrochrome used to add chromium for wear and corrosion resistance.
High-carbon ferrochrome (HC FeCr) contains roughly 60-70 percent chromium. It is the chromium source for high-chromium white iron, alloy steel and stainless steel castings. Chromium forms carbides and raises hardness and wear resistance.
In cast iron, chromium increases the tendency to chill (white iron formation), so additions to grey and ductile iron must be set carefully. In high-chromium iron production, the chromium-to-carbon ratio and heat treatment determine final hardness and toughness.
Because of its high melting point, dissolution time of coarse lumps must be considered, and the addition should be made early in the charge. In stainless and low-carbon alloy steel grades where carbon pick-up is undesirable, low-carbon (LC) ferrochrome is used.
Typical chemical analysis (%)
| Chromium (Cr), HC | 60-70 |
|---|---|
| Carbon (C), HC | 6,0-8,0 |
| Silicon (Si), HC | ≤ 3,0 |
| Phosphorus (P), HC | ≤ 0,04 |
| Sulphur (S), HC | ≤ 0,05 |
Typical ranges. Exact values are given in the analysis certificate of each lot.
Product details
- Grades
- HC (high carbon) and LC (low carbon)
- Grain size
- 10-50 mm, 3-10 mm; on request
- Packing
- Bags; big bags on request
- LC analysis
- With an analysis certificate per lot
Applications
- High-chromium white iron (wear parts)
- Alloy and stainless steel casting
- Chromium addition in low-carbon alloy and stainless steels with the LC grade