Ferrosilicon is commonly employed as a deoxidizer and alloying agent in the steelmaking industry. Additionally, it serves as an inoculant and spheroidizing agent in the foundry industry. Given the importance of steelmaking and casting within heavy industries, comprehending the raw material additives used is crucial. Below, we delve into what ferrosilicon is and its various applications.

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An Introduction to Ferrosilicon

Ferrosilicon is an iron alloy primarily composed of silicon and iron. This alloy is produced in electric furnaces by smelting a mixture of coke, steel scraps, and quartz (or silica).

Grades and Composition of Ferrosilicon

Ferrosilicon is available in various grades, including 65#, 75A#, 75B#, and 75# with a silicon content of 75% or higher. Typically, the aluminum content in these grades is less than 2.0%.

Key Uses of Ferrosilicon

The steelmaking industry utilizes ferrosilicon as a deoxidizer and alloying agent. Deoxidation is necessary during the final stage of steelmaking to ensure the steel's chemical composition meets the required standards. Silicon has a strong affinity for oxygen, making ferrosilicon a potent deoxidizer. It facilitates both precipitation and diffusion deoxidation.

Addition of silicon to steel can substantially enhance its strength, hardness, and elasticity. Consequently, ferrosilicon is employed in the production of structural steel (0.40-1.75% silicon), tool steel (0.30-1.8% silicon), spring steel (0.40-2.8% silicon), and transformer silicon steel (2.81-4.8% silicon). Furthermore, it acts as an alloying agent.

Ferrosilicon also improves inclusion shapes and reduces gas elements in molten steel, a modern technique to enhance steel quality, lower costs, and conserve iron. It's particularly effective for continuous casting molten steel's deoxidation needs. Practical results show that ferrosilicon not only satisfies steelmaking deoxidation requirements but also offers desulfurization benefits, significant specific gravity, and strong penetration capabilities.

Physical State and Packaging of Ferrosilicon

Ferrosilicon is typically available in sizes of 10-50mm and 50-100mm. Key physical indicators include the presence of cracks, discoloration when rubbed, a crisp sound when struck, an off-white cross-section, and the presence of pores.

Packaging options for ferrosilicon include bulk shipments or ton bags.

Storage and Handling Precautions

Ferrosilicon is sensitive to moisture. Exposure to water can cause natural blocks to disintegrate, subsequently reducing the silicon content.

I hope this detailed information on the uses and handling of ferrosilicon is valuable for you!

Chemical Datasheet

FERROSILICON

Chemical Identifiers

• CAS Number: 8049-17-0
• UN/NA Number: 1408
• DOT Hazard Label: Dangerous When Wet, Poison
• USCG CHRIS Code: FSN

General Description: A solid alloy composed of iron and silicon, ferrosilicon is odorless and crystalline. It is used in adding silicon to iron and steel and has applications in magnesium processing. It's flammable and can react explosively with oxidizing materials. In the presence of moisture or water, it may emit toxic and explosive fumes.

Hazards

• Strong Reducing Agent
• Water-Reactive
• Pyrophoric

Air & Water Reactions: Ferrosilicon is flammable and reacts with moisture or water to form flammable hydrogen gas. The heat generated by this reaction may ignite the hydrogen.

Fire Hazard: Irritating vapors and toxic gases may form during a fire.

Health Hazard: Exposure to ferrosilicon can irritate the eyes, nose, and throat. It is toxic if inhaled or ingested.

Reactivity Profile: Metals like ferrosilicon are reducing agents and often react with oxidizing agents, especially when finely divided. Reactions are less vigorous than alkali metals but can ignite released hydrogen.

Response Recommendations

Firefighting: Do not use water. Use dry chemical, alcohol foam, or carbon dioxide.

Non-Fire Response: Eliminate all ignition sources. Do not touch or walk through the spilled material. Cover with dry earth, sand, or non-combustible material and minimize spreading with a plastic sheet. Only clean up or dispose of spills under specialist supervision.

Protective Clothing: Wear protective clothing and approved respirators to avoid contact with dust.

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First Aid:

• Inhalation: Move to fresh air and provide artificial respiration if needed. Administer oxygen if breathing is difficult.
• Eyes: Flush with water for at least 15 minutes, lifting eyelids occasionally.
• Skin: Remove contaminated clothing and shoes, and flush the skin with water.

Physical Properties

Note: Vapor Density and Specific Gravity comparison tips:

• Vapor Density (Relative to Air): Data unavailable
• Specific Gravity: 5.4 (Denser than water; will sink)

• Chemical Formula: Fe, Si, alloy

Regulatory Information

The regulatory information includes data from various U.S. agencies like the EPA, CISA, and OSHA.

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• FERROSILICON
• FERROSILICON, [FLAMMABLE SOLID]
• FERROSILICON, [WITH >= 30% BUT <= 70% SILICON]