Steel and foundry manufacturers often face challenges in their production processes such as unstable deoxidation results, high alloy costs, and slag buildup. These inefficiencies not only increase operational costs but also affect product quality and delay delivery times. Fortunately, metallurgical-grade silicon carbide (SiC 90%) offers a powerful and cost-effective solution. It enhances deoxidation efficiency, stabilizes chemical composition, and improves metallurgical performance—while also lowering costs compared to traditional ferroalloys.
Metallurgical-grade silicon carbide (SiC 90%) is a high-purity additive used in steelmaking and foundry processes that enriches both silicon and carbon, performs deoxidation, and conditions slag. Containing at least 90% SiC, it is a highly economical and efficient alternative to traditional ferroalloys.
Whether used in electric arc furnaces (EAF), basic oxygen furnaces (BOF), or ladle metallurgy, 90% silicon carbide delivers greater efficiency and fewer impurities, making it an ideal choice for modern steel mills and foundries.
Composition and Specifications of SiC 90%
Metallurgical-grade silicon carbide typically consists of the following components:
| Parameter | Specification |
| SiC Content | ≥90% |
| Free Carbon | ≤3% |
| Fe₂O₃ | ≤1.5% |
| Moisture | ≤0.5% |
| Bulk Density | 1.4 – 1.6 g/cm³ |
| Particle Size Range | 1–10 mm, 10–50 mm (customizable) |
This grade is designed specifically for high-temperature applications, where stable performance and consistent reactivity are crucial for process control.
What are the industrial uses of SiC 90%?
Steelmaking (EAF/BOF)
In steelmaking, 90% silicon carbide is used for:
- Deoxidation: Supplements or replaces FeSi to reduce oxygen levels.
- Carbon Recovery: Effectively increases carbon content.
- Slag Conditioning: Improves flow and separation during tapping.
Foundry Applications
In casting operations:
- Enhances graphite structure in cast iron.
- Reduces slag formation and improves yield.
- In cupola and induction furnaces, it serves as both a silicon and carbon source.
Refractories
Due to its thermal conductivity and oxidation resistance, 90% SiC is also used as raw material for bricks and linings.
Ferroalloy Production
Acts as a cost-effective reducing agent in the production of alloys like ferrosilicon or ferrochrome.
How does SiC 90% improve steelmaking efficiency?
Metallurgical-grade silicon carbide performs a dual role:
- Silicon reacts intensely with oxygen, reducing inclusions:
2Si + O₂ → 2SiO
This reaction helps lower total oxygen in molten steel, resulting in cleaner products. - Carbon component increases carbon content, improving mechanical properties and alloy balance:
Compared to petroleum coke or graphite, its carbon absorption is more predictable. - Slag Behavior:
SiC lowers the slag’s melting point and improves its fluidity, promoting faster separation and slag removal.
Overall, SiC 90% simplifies alloying steps, reduces slag volume, and lowers costs.
Why choose 90% SiC over traditional additives like ferrosilicon or coke?
| Additive | Function | Cost-Effectiveness | Stability | Complexity |
| FeSi | Deoxidizer (Si) | Moderate | Medium | Requires carbon source |
| Petroleum Coke | Carbon Additive | Low | High | Requires silicon source |
| SiC 90% | Dual function (Si+C) | High | Low | Simple |
By replacing multiple materials with a single one, SiC reduces inventory needs, logistics complexity, and charge loading—improving operational efficiency.
How much SiC 90% should be added in production?
The amount of SiC 90% depends on steel grade, furnace type, and production stage.
- Steelmaking (EAF): 0.5% – 1.5% of the charge weight
- Foundry applications: 0.2% – 1.0%, depending on silicon and carbon recovery targets
- Slag Conditioner: Adjusted according to desired viscosity and impurity content
Trial production under controlled conditions is recommended to determine the optimal percentage.
What particle sizes are available?
At Hengxin, we offer a variety of customizable sizes:
- 1–10 mm: For ladle additives or high-reactivity charge materials
- 10–50 mm: For furnace charge in EAF/BOF
- 0–3 mm: For mixing with other additives or use in automatic dosing systems
Custom sizes and screening services are available upon request.
Key Benefits of SiC 90% for Buyers and Plant Operators
- Significant Cost Savings: Much lower than using separate silicon and carbon sources. Reduces total cost per ton.
- Cleaner Steel: Lower oxygen and less slag lead to higher quality, defect-free steel.
- Simplified Inventory: One additive replaces several inputs, streamlining procurement and logistics.
- Eco-Friendly: Less slag means less waste and lower disposal costs.
- Faster Reaction: Speeds up processing time and increases yield.
How does 90% SiC compare to other SiC grades?
| Grade | SiC Content | Application Focus |
| Metallurgical SiC 90% | ≥90% | Steelmaking, Foundry |
| Metallurgical SiC 70–80% | 70–80% | Cost-sensitive or lower-spec users |
| Refractory SiC | ≥95% | Bricks, linings, insulation |
| Green SiC | ≥99% | Ceramics, semiconductors, abrasives |
Metallurgical-grade SiC 90% offers the best performance-to-cost ratio for industrial-scale metal production.
Why source SiC 90% from Hengxin?
Hengxin specializes in high-performance metallurgical and abrasive materials. With a 3,000 m² production facility and advanced screening systems, we ensure stable product quality, fast delivery, and reliable supply.
Our core strengths include:
- Factory-direct pricing
- Ample inventory and short lead times
- Customizable sizes and packaging
- Stable exports to 30+ countries
- Rapid-response technical support for trials
We serve buyers across the Middle East, Southeast Asia, Europe, the US, Japan, and Korea, fully compliant with international standards.
Is SiC 90% compatible with my current alloy system?
Yes. SiC 90% is compatible with most setups:
- Basic Oxygen Furnace (BOF)
- Electric Arc Furnace (EAF)
- Induction Furnace (IF)
- Cupola Furnace
- Ladle Metallurgy Station (LMS)
It can be added as part of the charge or during the refining stage. Many steelmakers report higher carbon and silicon recovery rates compared to FeSi + coke combinations.
Packaging and Logistics Support
We offer flexible delivery options to support global B2B buyers:
- Packaging: 25kg bags, 1-ton jumbo bags, or bulk
- Shipping Terms: FOB, CIF, or DDP available
- Custom Services: Private label, barcode tags, moisture-proof liners
We understand the logistics needs of large industrial buyers and strive to ensure fast turnaround and minimal downtime.
FAQ
Q: Is 90% silicon carbide safe to handle?
A: Yes, it is safe under normal operating conditions. Dust control measures and PPE should be used during handling.
Q: What is the shelf life?
A: SiC 90% can be stored for over 12 months in a dry, covered warehouse.
Q: Can you provide third-party inspection or SGS reports?
A: Yes, full COA (Certificate of Analysis) and third-party reports are available upon request.
Conclusion
Metallurgical-grade silicon carbide (SiC 90%) is more than just an additive—it is a strategic tool for steel and foundry operations seeking better performance, lower costs, and cleaner processes. Whether you work with carbon steel, alloy steel, or cast iron, this material offers a reliable and cost-effective path to enhanced metallurgical outcomes.
Looking for high-quality 90% purity silicon carbide with fast delivery and competitive pricing?
Contact Kesen at Kesen@hxnewmaterial.com
