What are the grades of ferrosilicon?

Low-silicon ferrosilicon typically contains 40% to 60% silicon. Its primary use is as a deoxidizer and alloying agent in low-carbon steel production, effectively removing oxygen from molten steel without introducing excessive carbon. It also serves as raw material for smelting other ferroalloys like silicomanganese, providing foundational silicon for subsequent alloy manufacturing.

Medium-silicon ferrosilicon typically contains 65% to 70% silicon, with stricter impurity control than low-silicon ferrosilicon. This type is most commonly used in foundry applications. On one hand, it enhances the hardness and wear resistance of cast iron, improving the mechanical properties of castings. On the other hand, it can be added to molten iron as a inoculant to refine the grain structure of castings, reduce internal cracks, and enhance overall casting quality.

High-silicon ferrosilicon typically contains 72% to 80% silicon and represents the most widely used category in industry, with even stricter impurity control. In steelmaking, it is primarily used for deep deoxidation of high-quality steels, effectively removing residual oxygen from molten steel and reducing inclusions. It is also employed in silicon steel production, where precise control of silicon content and impurities enhances magnetic permeability and resistance to magnetic loss, meeting the demands of electrical equipment such as motors and transformers.