ferrochrome

Ferrochrome, or FeCr, is an alloy of chromium and iron that typically contains chromium in the range of about 50 to 70 percent by weight, with the remainder primarily iron and varying amounts of carbon depending on the grade. It is produced by carbothermic reduction of chromite ore in electric arc furnaces or submerged arc furnaces, usually with fluxes such as lime or silica to aid slag formation. The production process is energy intensive and generates dust and other emissions that require control through gas-cleaning systems.

There are two main grades of ferrochrome: high-carbon ferrochrome and low-carbon ferrochrome. High-carbon ferrochrome has a higher carbon content and is generally cheaper, while low-carbon ferrochrome contains little carbon and is favored for producing stainless steels and other low-carbon alloys. Some markets also produce intermediate or medium-carbon grades to balance properties and cost.

In steelmaking, ferrochrome is used as the primary source of chromium for stainless and other high-chromium steels. The ferrochrome is melted and added to molten steel to raise its chromium content, enabling corrosion resistance and high-temperature strength characteristic of stainless grades such as austenitic and ferritic stainless steels. The precise chromium content and other alloying effects depend on the steel grade and the amount of ferrochrome added.

Global production is concentrated in a few regions with large chromite resources and substantial electrical energy availability, including parts of Southern Africa, Kazakhstan, India, Finland, Russia, and Turkey. Ferrochrome prices and supply are closely linked to stainless steel demand and the costs of energy and chromite ore.