ferronickel

Ferronickel is an alloy primarily composed of iron and nickel, with smaller amounts of other elements such as carbon, silicon, and manganese. It is produced by smelting lateritic nickel ores, which are abundant in certain regions, particularly in the Philippines, Indonesia, and New Caledonia. Ferronickel is a crucial intermediate product in the production of nickel pig iron, which is further processed to obtain high-purity nickel.

The production process involves the reduction of nickel laterite ores using carbon or coal in a rotary kiln or blast furnace. The resulting ferronickel contains approximately 60-70% nickel and 20-30% iron, along with other impurities. The alloy has a low melting point, making it suitable for smelting and refining processes.

Ferronickel is used as a feedstock in the production of nickel pig iron, which is then processed to produce high-purity nickel. It can also be used as a nickel-bearing material in various applications, such as in the production of stainless steel, nickel alloys, and other nickel-containing products. The global demand for ferronickel is driven by the increasing demand for nickel, which is used in various industries, including stainless steel production, rechargeable batteries, and superalloys for aerospace and power generation applications.