Technical Information 1

Oxidation of Ferrosilicon Alloys During Storage

Ferrosilicon alloys, such as those used for inoculation or the production of nodular graphite
irons, are subject to surface oxidation if exposed to moisture or high levels of humidity
during transport and storage. The oxidation can become a serious problem, particularly
with the more finely divided, crushed and graded materials. This may lead to loss of
efficiency when added to liquid iron and the use of larger additions. The consequences
can be increased costs and possible slag problems.
The level of oxidation can be related to the oxygen content of the alloy. The oxygen
contents of inoculants and MgFeSi-alloys have been determined as a function of storage
time when stored under dry conditions and under high humidity. The figure below is typical
of the results obtained. Very small changes in the oxygen content occurred with alloys
stored under dry conditions while alloys subject to wet storage showed severe tendencies
to oxidation.

Oxygen concentration in ferrosilicon stored in dry vs. humid storage.

Important Precautions for Storage of Ferrosilicon Alloys:

1. Transportation of ferroalloys should always be carried out in sealed containers or
other water resistant units such as big bags or steel drums. Loads should be well
sheeted to protect the units from rain and spray.
2. If ferroalloys have to be stored outside they should be kept in closed, watertight
drums or bags to avoid exposure to water or humidity. Large changes in
temperature (e.g. exposure to sunlight) should be avoided in order to minimize the
risk of condensation.
3. The best way to avoid the oxidation of ferrosilicon alloys is to store them in a dry
warehouse having constant temperature.

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Org. no.
NO 911 382 008 MVA

Revision
No. 2.5
16.02.2011