Ferrochrome - The Core of the Steel Industry

Ferrochrome (FeCr) is a ferroalloy composed of iron (Fe) and chromium (Cr). The prefix “ferro” denotes iron. In addition to iron and chromium, ferrochrome contains small amounts of carbon (C), silicon (Si), sulfur (S), and phosphorus (P).

Ferrochrome is a key material in the production of low-alloy structural steels (containing 1–3% chromium) and steel bearings. Chromium is used in stainless steels due to its ability to form a protective oxide film (Cr₂O₃). Moreover, it forms hard carbides, making it suitable for applications requiring wear resistance.

Ferrochrome alloys are generally categorized into three main types:

• Low Carbon Ferrochrome (LC FeCr)
• Medium Carbon Ferrochrome (MC FeCr)
• High Carbon Ferrochrome (HC FeCr)

High carbon ferrochrome is produced through an electrometallurgical process in electric arc furnaces using chromite and iron ores. This process involves reducing iron and chromium oxides with a coke reducing agent. Top Echo Middle East industrial complex specializes in producing high carbon ferrochrome, which is widely used in various industries.

Ferrochrome is primarily used in the production of stainless steel. The presence of more than 18% chromium in steel transforms it into stainless steel. Additionally, up to 4% chromium in steel is used as an alloying element to enhance hardenability and improve mechanical properties.

The carbon content in high carbon ferrochrome ranges from 6% to 8%, while chromium content varies between 60% and 67%. This material is used in manufacturing steel bearings, tools, and other alloy steels.

The slag resulting from high carbon ferrochrome production contains a complex composition of Al₂O₃-MgO-SiO₂, along with small amounts of chromium oxide (Cr₂O₃) and iron oxide (Fe₂O₃). This slag is used in the cement industry and insulation industries for producing rock wool.