Elkem ASA Foundry Products Division
P.O. Box 372,
0213
Oslo
Drammensveien 169, 0277 Oslo
Norway
Drammensveien 169, 0277 Oslo
Norway
Location
Hall map
Fairground map
Contact
Clarissa Boomgaards
Marlon van Wijngaarden
Our range of products
Product categories
- 02 Melting shop
- 02.06 Operating materials and supplies for the melting shop
- 02.06.02 Slag-forming additives
Slag-forming additives
- 02 Melting shop
- 02.06 Operating materials and supplies for the melting shop
- 02.06.03 Melt additives and covering fluxes for ferrous cast alloys
Melt additives and covering fluxes for ferrous cast alloys
- 02 Melting shop
- 02.06 Operating materials and supplies for the melting shop
- 02.06.05 Recarburizers
Recarburizers
- 04 Metallic charge materials
- 04.01 Charge materials for iron, steel and malleable iron casting
- 04.01.03 Ferro-alloys
Ferro-alloys
- 04 Metallic charge materials
- 04.01 Charge materials for iron, steel and malleable iron casting
- 04.01.04 Alloying metals, master alloys
Alloying metals, master alloys
- 04 Metallic charge materials
- 04.01 Charge materials for iron, steel and malleable iron casting
- 04.01.05 Inoculants
Inoculants
- 04 Metallic charge materials
- 04.01 Charge materials for iron, steel and malleable iron casting
- 04.01.06 Nodularizing additions for spheroidal graphite cast iron
Nodularizing additions for spheroidal graphite cast iron
- 04 Metallic charge materials
- 04.02 Charge materials for non-ferrous metal castings
- 04.02.06 Alloying metals, master alloys
Alloying metals, master alloys
- 10 Casting machines and pouring equipment
- 10.01 Pouring equipment
- 10.01.02 Pouring equipment, dosing
Pouring equipment, dosing
- 19 Measurement and test technology
- 19.01 Measuring instruments
- 19.01.02 Thermal analysis equipment
Thermal analysis equipment
Our products
Alinoc® inoculant
This powerful ductile iron inoculant is also a ferrite promoter. By generating a high nodule number, the consequent graphite expansion will minimise shrinkage porosity. It is especially potent when used on ferritic and mixed ferrite / pearlite grades. Alinoc® inoculant is available as both ladle and stream inoculant. It is also used in ultra-low aluminium grey irons to promote type A graphite.
* Potent ferrite promoting inoculant in ductile iron
* More potent than conventional Ca-bearing inoculants
* More cost-effective than other Ca-bearing inoculants
* Can be used in both grey and ductile irons
* Very effective inoculant and preconditioner in low Al grey iron
Barinoc® inoculant
These inoculants are available as 67 and 75% Si-based ferroalloys with defined levels of barium and calcium. Barinoc® was developed especially for inoculation of medium to heavy section castings due to its good fade resistance. It is an excellent chill remover in both grey and ductile irons. Due to its fading resistance, you can use it for medium to heavy section castings with longer cooling times. It helps you to minimise nodule count and size variations between thin and thick section castings. It is also the preferred inoculant for use as a first step in a two-step inoculation process, giving maximum effect in conjunction with a carefully selected second stage inoculant.
* Fade resistant inoculant
* Used in grey and ductile iron
* Very effective in low S grey iron
* Changes slag formation in ductile iron
* Effective inoculant for alloyed irons such as Ni-resist
* Especially effective as a preconditioner or as first step inoculation in a two-stage inoculation proces
Foundrisil® inoculant
Foundrisil® inoculants are available as 67 and 75 % Si-based ferroalloys containing optimised amounts of calcium and barium to give very effective control of chill in grey and ductile irons. They are particularly useful in grey iron of lower sulphur content where many inoculants become less effective. In grey iron of normal sulphur content (> 0.06% S), Foundrisil® inoculant is a very effective, economic product for reducing chill. Addition rates can often be reduced by up to one third when substituting it for conventional Ca-bearing ferrosilicon. ln grey iron of lower sulphur content, Foundrisil® inoculant gives effective chill control. This is of particular advantage to foundries producing grey and ductile iron from the same base melt.
* More potent than conventional Ca-bearing inoculants in grey and ductile irons
* More cost effective than other Ca-bearing inoculants
* Optimum Ca and Ba contents minimise dross
* Can be used in grey, compacted graphite and ductile irons
* Especially effective in grey irons of lower sulphur content
Pipeinoc®
Pipeinoc® mould powders are a family of speciality powders that are designed to reduce surface defects, facilitate pipe extraction and extend mould life, thus improving overall casting productivity and costs.
The Pipeinoc® chute inoculants are designed to control chill in ductile iron pipes and can reduce energy usage during heat treatment.
Our Technical team and R&D department can evaluate your needs and propose you the right products.
The Pipeinoc® chute inoculants are designed to control chill in ductile iron pipes and can reduce energy usage during heat treatment.
Our Technical team and R&D department can evaluate your needs and propose you the right products.
Reseed® inoculant
This inoculant is a powerful alloyed material containing cerium and calcium as the main active elements. It is particularly effective in irons of low base nucleation (e.g. pure Mg process produced irons), in combination with Lamet® nodularisers and in low sulphur grey irons. High nodule number, low chilling tendency and the promotion of a ferritic structure are the predominant features of this inoculant.
Reseed® inoculant is produced by Elkem who recognised the need for a product which you can use as the sole inoculant in foundries making both grey and ductile irons. Keeping the base sulphur content of the grey iron at the low end of the spectrum, helps with the segregation of return metal.
* High potency inoculant for ductile iron and low sulphur grey iron
* Promotes good nodularity and higher nodule number in thicker section ductile iron castings
* Effective on ductile irons produced from both MgFeSi processes and low nucleation, pure Mg processes
* Helps to prevent graphite reversion to flake near to the mould surface in ductile iron
* Helps to prevent micro-shrinkage in ductile iron
Reseed® inoculant is produced by Elkem who recognised the need for a product which you can use as the sole inoculant in foundries making both grey and ductile irons. Keeping the base sulphur content of the grey iron at the low end of the spectrum, helps with the segregation of return metal.
* High potency inoculant for ductile iron and low sulphur grey iron
* Promotes good nodularity and higher nodule number in thicker section ductile iron castings
* Effective on ductile irons produced from both MgFeSi processes and low nucleation, pure Mg processes
* Helps to prevent graphite reversion to flake near to the mould surface in ductile iron
* Helps to prevent micro-shrinkage in ductile iron
SMZ® inoculant
This good quality, general-purpose inoculant is suited to all cast irons. It contains elements that give a low melting point for the alloy. This aids solution in cast irons treated at the lower end of the temperature range. The rapid solution makes this an ideal inoculant for in-stream applications. You can use SMZ® as the single inoculant producing a variety of cast iron grades.
It is perhaps the oldest trade name for an inoculant that is still in use today. Originally produced by Union Carbide, the ferroalloy is now made at Elkem plants in Norway and Canada (click here to go to our plants), along with production of other quality inoculants, such as Superseed® inoculant.
* Grey and ductile iron inoculant
* Low melting point alloy to assist solution at low pouring temperature
* Ideally suited to late metal stream (MSI) applications
* Narrow chemical and sizing limits for maximum consistency
* Effective for nitrogen control
It is perhaps the oldest trade name for an inoculant that is still in use today. Originally produced by Union Carbide, the ferroalloy is now made at Elkem plants in Norway and Canada (click here to go to our plants), along with production of other quality inoculants, such as Superseed® inoculant.
* Grey and ductile iron inoculant
* Low melting point alloy to assist solution at low pouring temperature
* Ideally suited to late metal stream (MSI) applications
* Narrow chemical and sizing limits for maximum consistency
* Effective for nitrogen control
Superseed® inoculant
Superseed® inoculant is a specially refined grade of ferrosilicon which has become recognised throughout the world as the most effective inoculant for the elimination of chill in grey iron. Its powerful action is obtained through the presence of small amounts of strontium in its composition.
Unlike most other ferrosilicon inoculants, it does not require the presence of aluminium and calcium to develop its full effect. In fact, small amounts of calcium, seriously reduce the nucleation efficiency of Sr-containing inoculants and are therefore kept at very low levels during its manufacture. Superseed® inoculant is a classic example of fundamental research by an independent organisation and development by an experienced manufacturer into a major product with worldwide sales.
* Promotes less shrinkage than other inoculants
* Gives maximum chill reduction in grey iron
* Extremely effective inoculant for ductile iron when a low Rare Earth containing nodulariser is used
* Low reactive element content gives less dross and less risk of pinholes
* Cost-effective due to low addition rate
Unlike most other ferrosilicon inoculants, it does not require the presence of aluminium and calcium to develop its full effect. In fact, small amounts of calcium, seriously reduce the nucleation efficiency of Sr-containing inoculants and are therefore kept at very low levels during its manufacture. Superseed® inoculant is a classic example of fundamental research by an independent organisation and development by an experienced manufacturer into a major product with worldwide sales.
* Promotes less shrinkage than other inoculants
* Gives maximum chill reduction in grey iron
* Extremely effective inoculant for ductile iron when a low Rare Earth containing nodulariser is used
* Low reactive element content gives less dross and less risk of pinholes
* Cost-effective due to low addition rate
Superseed® Extra inoculant
This inoculant is a 75% Si-based ferroalloy especially designed for use in grey iron. It contains balanced additions of strontium and zirconium which are powerful in promoting type A graphite and reducing the risk of nitrogen blowholes respectively. By producing the inoculant with a deliberately low aluminium and calcium content, the likelihood of hydrogen pinholes and slag generation are minimised.
Superseed® Extra inoculant is produced at the Elkem Bremanger plant in Norway and the Elkem Chicoutimi plant in Canada (click here to go to our plants), using special production methods to ensure maximum uniformity of composition and structure throughout the product.
* Maximum chill reduction in grey iron
* Promotes evenly distributed random type A graphite
* Neutralises nitrogen by tying it up as zirconium nitride
* Promotes a small graphite flake size, thus minimising graphite pull-out during machining
* Low aluminium content reduces risk of hydrogen pinholes
* Effective in grey irons of all sulphur contents
Superseed® Extra inoculant is produced at the Elkem Bremanger plant in Norway and the Elkem Chicoutimi plant in Canada (click here to go to our plants), using special production methods to ensure maximum uniformity of composition and structure throughout the product.
* Maximum chill reduction in grey iron
* Promotes evenly distributed random type A graphite
* Neutralises nitrogen by tying it up as zirconium nitride
* Promotes a small graphite flake size, thus minimising graphite pull-out during machining
* Low aluminium content reduces risk of hydrogen pinholes
* Effective in grey irons of all sulphur contents
Ultraseed® Bi inoculant
Ultraseed® Bi inoculant is designed for use with pure Mg treated ductile irons which have a very low nucleation level post-nodularisation. This does not, however, preclude use in MgFeSi treated irons. Ultraseed® Bi inoculant may be used in all section sizes from small automotive parts to wind energy applications. The product is based on Elkem’s patented coating inoculant technology.
* Generates high nodule density
* Promotes ferrite
* Powerful chill reducer
* May be used on ductile irons produced with pure Mg methods
* May be used on irons treated with MgFeSi.
* Generates high nodule density
* Promotes ferrite
* Powerful chill reducer
* May be used on ductile irons produced with pure Mg methods
* May be used on irons treated with MgFeSi.
Ultraseed® Ce inoculant
Ultraseed® Ce is a powerful inoculant designed for use in low nucleation potential irons, especially those low in base sulphur or made with violent nodularisation processes. Ultraseed® Ce is also extremely effective where micro-shrinkage porosity is difficult to eliminate.
It contains small and controlled amounts of sulphur and oxygen in a form that makes them available for reaction with the calcium and cerium in the inoculant during addition to liquid iron. This special composition is designed to give you highly powerful graphite nucleation and generation of additional late-stage nodules in ductile irons, along with very effective chill reduction.
* More potent than conventional ferrosilicon-based inoculants
* Gives high nodule count and powerful chill reduction
* Reduces shrinkage tendency more than other inoculants
* Gives powerful effect in low-sulphur irons and irons of a “dead” nature
* Improves tensile properties and machinability for ferritic ductile irons
Read more about the application of Ultraseed® Ce in our case studies.
It contains small and controlled amounts of sulphur and oxygen in a form that makes them available for reaction with the calcium and cerium in the inoculant during addition to liquid iron. This special composition is designed to give you highly powerful graphite nucleation and generation of additional late-stage nodules in ductile irons, along with very effective chill reduction.
* More potent than conventional ferrosilicon-based inoculants
* Gives high nodule count and powerful chill reduction
* Reduces shrinkage tendency more than other inoculants
* Gives powerful effect in low-sulphur irons and irons of a “dead” nature
* Improves tensile properties and machinability for ferritic ductile irons
Read more about the application of Ultraseed® Ce in our case studies.
Ultraseed® Zr inoculant
Ultraseed® Zr inoculant is the Rare Earth free alternative to the highly successful cerium containing version, Ultraseed® Ce. Using the same technology of adding the necessary elements for nucleation, oxygen and sulphur, at the inoculation stage, Ultraseed® Zr generates high nodule counts, excellent chill removal and is effective in irons made by any nodularising process.
It contains levels of calcium, zirconium and aluminium that are optimised to minimise chill and provide a high number of graphite nucleation sites in the iron.
* More potent than conventional ferrosilicon-based inoculants
* Gives high nodule count and powerful chill reduction
* Effective on ductile irons produced from pure Mg and MgFeSi processes
* Provides good nodule structure in heavy section ferritic ductile iron
* Rare Earth free inoculant
It contains levels of calcium, zirconium and aluminium that are optimised to minimise chill and provide a high number of graphite nucleation sites in the iron.
* More potent than conventional ferrosilicon-based inoculants
* Gives high nodule count and powerful chill reduction
* Effective on ductile irons produced from pure Mg and MgFeSi processes
* Provides good nodule structure in heavy section ferritic ductile iron
* Rare Earth free inoculant
Vaxon® inoculant
Vaxon® inoculant is a medium potency material produced to the same exacting standards as all other Elkem inoculants. Its defined content of active elements calcium and aluminium ensures that it consistently performs much better than standard ferrosilicon, giving reliable chill reduction and improved graphite morphology in less critical applications.
Note: Vaxon® is sold as Foundry Grade (FG) Ferrosilicon in the North American market
Note: Vaxon® is sold as Foundry Grade (FG) Ferrosilicon in the North American market
Zircinoc® inoculant
You can use this excellent general-purpose inoculant in grey, compacted graphite or ductile cast irons. Zircinoc® is widely used in foundries either as a ladle addition or in-stream and gives good chill removal and graphite morphology.
It is a Si-based ferroalloy containing carefully controlled amounts of the active elements zirconium, calcium and aluminium. This gives you good control of chill in both grey and ductile irons and enhances the formation of refined graphite morphology. Zircinoc® inoculant is particularly effective in medium to high sulphur grey irons and finds extensive application in ductile iron.
* More potent than other foundry grade inoculants in grey and ductile irons
* Applicable over a wide range of foundry conditions
* Fade resistant
* Easily soluble even at lower casting temperatures
* Suitable for late metal stream applications
It is a Si-based ferroalloy containing carefully controlled amounts of the active elements zirconium, calcium and aluminium. This gives you good control of chill in both grey and ductile irons and enhances the formation of refined graphite morphology. Zircinoc® inoculant is particularly effective in medium to high sulphur grey irons and finds extensive application in ductile iron.
* More potent than other foundry grade inoculants in grey and ductile irons
* Applicable over a wide range of foundry conditions
* Fade resistant
* Easily soluble even at lower casting temperatures
* Suitable for late metal stream applications
Product category: Recarburizers
Elgraph® Premium recarburiser
Elgraph® Premium recarburiser is specially formulated as a carbon raiser for steel and grey iron castings, with particular emphasis on high purity, high carbon recovery, rapid solubility and good reproducibility. Elgraph® Premium Grade Recarburiser with its' low nitrogen content is especially suited for production of grey iron and some ductile operations. The technology developed for Elgraph® Premium is based on knowledge gained from 100 years of Elkem electrode paste production. Selection, control and testing of raw materials optimise production based on customer needs. Our high-temperature electric calcining process ensures maximum crystallinity of the final product which enhances purity and solubility. Elgraph® Premium recarburiser is available in size grading 0-0.5mm and 0.5 - 5mm.
* High carbon recovery
* Easy, rapid solubility even with low agitation
* Consistent quality due to continuous production process
* Ideal for carbon trimming just prior to casting
* Low nitrogen/hydrogen levels reduce pinhole risk
* High carbon recovery
* Easy, rapid solubility even with low agitation
* Consistent quality due to continuous production process
* Ideal for carbon trimming just prior to casting
* Low nitrogen/hydrogen levels reduce pinhole risk
Product category: Recarburizers
Elgraph® Superior recarburiser
Elgraph® Superior Grade recarburiser is specially formulated as a carbon raiser for ductile iron, with particular emphasis on high purity, high carbon recovery, rapid solubility and very low content of sulphur, nitrogen and hydrogen. It may also be used for final trimming of grey iron. Its' high dissolution rate makes it very suitable in the carbon adjustment phaseof melt preparation.
The technology developed for Elgraph® Superior is based on knowledge gained from 100 years of Elkem electrode paste production. Selection, control and testing of raw materials optimise production based on customer needs. Our high-temperature electric calcining process ensures maximum crystallinity of the final product which enhances purity and solubility. Elgraph® Superior recarburiser is available in size grading 0-0.5mm and 0.5 - 5mm.
* High carbon recovery
* Easy, rapid solubility even with low agitation
* Consistent quality due to continuous production process
* Ideal for carbon trimming just prior to casting
* Low nitrogen/hydrogen levels reduce pinhole risk
The technology developed for Elgraph® Superior is based on knowledge gained from 100 years of Elkem electrode paste production. Selection, control and testing of raw materials optimise production based on customer needs. Our high-temperature electric calcining process ensures maximum crystallinity of the final product which enhances purity and solubility. Elgraph® Superior recarburiser is available in size grading 0-0.5mm and 0.5 - 5mm.
* High carbon recovery
* Easy, rapid solubility even with low agitation
* Consistent quality due to continuous production process
* Ideal for carbon trimming just prior to casting
* Low nitrogen/hydrogen levels reduce pinhole risk
Product category: Ferro-alloys
CompactMag® nodulariser
Producing compacted graphite iron by either undertreating with MgFeSi or by making a good ductile iron and then adding titanium are both unreliable methods with narrow production parameters. Treatment with CompactMag® alloy gives you far more reliable results, with wider production windows and without the addition of harmful titanium.
* Specially designed alloy for structure control in compacted graphite iron (CGI)
* Cost effective alternative to titanium providing better machinability and a minimum of slag and dross
* Contains carefully balanced Mg, Ca, and RE for optimum CGI production
* The high Rare Earth content ensures a minimum of section sensitivity in the CGI microstructure
* Recommended for low sulphur base irons, and can be used in both ladle and in-the-mould treatment processes
* CompactMag® alloy allows for fully mixing the CGI returns with ductile returns without causing any harmful interactions
* Specially designed alloy for structure control in compacted graphite iron (CGI)
* Cost effective alternative to titanium providing better machinability and a minimum of slag and dross
* Contains carefully balanced Mg, Ca, and RE for optimum CGI production
* The high Rare Earth content ensures a minimum of section sensitivity in the CGI microstructure
* Recommended for low sulphur base irons, and can be used in both ladle and in-the-mould treatment processes
* CompactMag® alloy allows for fully mixing the CGI returns with ductile returns without causing any harmful interactions
Product category: Ferro-alloys
Elmag® nodulariser
Nodularising treatment using MgFeSi alloys rather than pure Mg generates more nuclei for nodule formation, resulting in higher nodule count and better mechanical properties.
MgFeSi should be regarded as a speciality product in today’s iron foundry environment of tight production schedules and quality requirements. Elmag® nodularisers are precision made to narrow specifications compared to other materials available on the market. This ensures that the alloy recovery and consistency of your iron treatment process are maximised.
* A wide range of MgFeSi grades to accommodate each foundry’s treatment process
* Speciality treatment alloys for specific metal grades and applications in the foundry industry
* Narrow product specifications to give highest consistency of Mg recovery
* Reduced slag inclusions, improved nodule counts, nodularity and structures
* Cost-effective with lower environmental impact and reduced fume
* Production close to major foundry clusters
MgFeSi should be regarded as a speciality product in today’s iron foundry environment of tight production schedules and quality requirements. Elmag® nodularisers are precision made to narrow specifications compared to other materials available on the market. This ensures that the alloy recovery and consistency of your iron treatment process are maximised.
* A wide range of MgFeSi grades to accommodate each foundry’s treatment process
* Speciality treatment alloys for specific metal grades and applications in the foundry industry
* Narrow product specifications to give highest consistency of Mg recovery
* Reduced slag inclusions, improved nodule counts, nodularity and structures
* Cost-effective with lower environmental impact and reduced fume
* Production close to major foundry clusters
Product category: Ferro-alloys
Lamet® nodulariser (in-the-mould process)
This nodulariser was designed specifically for in-the-mould production of ductile iron. It is a cost-effective and consistent means of treating ductile iron and produces excellent nodular structures. There is a low shrinkage tendency with Lamet® nodulariser when compared to conventional MgFeSi alloys.
* Excellent casting consistency
* High nodule count
* Low shrinkage tendency
* High magnesium yield
* Low slag generation
* Cost effective
* Excellent casting consistency
* High nodule count
* Low shrinkage tendency
* High magnesium yield
* Low slag generation
* Cost effective
Product category: Ferro-alloys
Lamet® nodulariser (ladle grades)
In addition to the conventional magnesium/ mischmetal containing nodularisers, Elkem has a range of materials designed specifically to give greater shrinkage reduction in ductile irons. These contain lanthanum as the only source of rare-earth and have the tradename Lamet® nodulariser.
Lamet is, as with all MgFeSi alloys, based on 45-50% Si bearing ferrosilicon and contains levels of lanthanum, calcium and aluminium which can be varied to suit your process.
Benefits of Lamet® nodulariser include:
* Minimised shrinkage
* Increased nodule count and nodularity
* Low chill tendency
* Reduced costs
* More consistent casting quality
Lamet is, as with all MgFeSi alloys, based on 45-50% Si bearing ferrosilicon and contains levels of lanthanum, calcium and aluminium which can be varied to suit your process.
Benefits of Lamet® nodulariser include:
* Minimised shrinkage
* Increased nodule count and nodularity
* Low chill tendency
* Reduced costs
* More consistent casting quality
Product category: Ferro-alloys
Remag® nodulariser
Remag® nodulariser contains carefully balanced levels of Rare Earth metals and is designed to give high nodule counts and minimal chill in thin section ductile iron. In conjunction with Elkem’s extensive range of inoculants, excellent casting properties may be readily achieved in thin casting sections where conventional alloys may fail. The lower levels of magnesium, coupled with elevated levels of Rare Earth give a high recovery of active elements and minimal reaction violence.
Tenbloc® inserts
Tenbloc® is a unique in the mould inoculant block without a binder or other additive, which provides consistent, reliable and cost effective inoculation for ductile and grey irons. This assists foundries to produce castings with improved metallurgical structures and mechanical properties.
Careful selection of the raw materials ensures Tenbloc® has uniform and consistent chemistry, providing homogeneous nucleation of the iron and is available in a wide range of analytical grades which can be tailored to suit specific foundry requirements for both ductile and grey iron.
Typical grades are:
TENBLOC® Std - Formulated to give good nodule count and shape and freedom from carbide in ductile iron
TENBLOC® Std+Zr - Adding Zr to the Std grade effectively controls carbide formation particularly in thin sections where increased undercooling can cause problems.
TENBLOC® Low Al – Restricting Al to <1% makes the Low Al grade well suited for grey iron inoculation minimising the risk of hydrogen pin-holing.
TENBLOC® Low Al+Zr - Adding Zr to the Low Al grade effectively controls carbide formation particularly in thin sections where increased undercooling can cause problems.
TENBLOC® MZ – MZ is suitable for both ductile and grey iron. The controlled amounts of Al, Ca and Zr give a strong inoculating effect and Mn increases the solubility of the block even when the pouring temperatures are low.
TENBLOC® Alternate Grade Availability: Many different grades can be produced and developed to suit specific foundry requirements. Elements such as Ba, Bi, Ce, La and Sr can be added, following discussions with our technical personnel. Smaller trial quantities can be produced for initial trials to determine the best analysis to give the required metallurgical properties in the finished casting.
Close control of all stages of production gives Tenbloc a number of advantages:
* It is free from impurities, eliminating the introduction of undesirable elements in the iron.
* There are no slag inclusions, gas holes or porosity.
* The unique metallurgical bond formed during production is important for immediate and controlled dissolution.
Careful selection of the raw materials ensures Tenbloc® has uniform and consistent chemistry, providing homogeneous nucleation of the iron and is available in a wide range of analytical grades which can be tailored to suit specific foundry requirements for both ductile and grey iron.
Typical grades are:
TENBLOC® Std - Formulated to give good nodule count and shape and freedom from carbide in ductile iron
TENBLOC® Std+Zr - Adding Zr to the Std grade effectively controls carbide formation particularly in thin sections where increased undercooling can cause problems.
TENBLOC® Low Al – Restricting Al to <1% makes the Low Al grade well suited for grey iron inoculation minimising the risk of hydrogen pin-holing.
TENBLOC® Low Al+Zr - Adding Zr to the Low Al grade effectively controls carbide formation particularly in thin sections where increased undercooling can cause problems.
TENBLOC® MZ – MZ is suitable for both ductile and grey iron. The controlled amounts of Al, Ca and Zr give a strong inoculating effect and Mn increases the solubility of the block even when the pouring temperatures are low.
TENBLOC® Alternate Grade Availability: Many different grades can be produced and developed to suit specific foundry requirements. Elements such as Ba, Bi, Ce, La and Sr can be added, following discussions with our technical personnel. Smaller trial quantities can be produced for initial trials to determine the best analysis to give the required metallurgical properties in the finished casting.
Close control of all stages of production gives Tenbloc a number of advantages:
* It is free from impurities, eliminating the introduction of undesirable elements in the iron.
* There are no slag inclusions, gas holes or porosity.
* The unique metallurgical bond formed during production is important for immediate and controlled dissolution.
Product category: Ferro-alloys
Preseed® preconditioner
This preconditioner has been proven to be an effective furnace addition for cast irons. Small additions of Preseed® both increase the number of available nucleation sites in the base iron and at the same time stabilise these crucial particles to give a long-lasting effect that can be measured right through to the final properties of the solidified iron.
Preseed® enhances the formation of type “A” graphite in grey iron, using closely controlled additions of aluminium and zirconium to condition manganese sulphide particles which act as nuclei for graphite precipitation. Preseed® will also retain oxide activity in the base iron so that oxygen is available for the formation of magnesium silicate nuclei in ductile iron. This will generate more nuclei and increase nodule density.
* Consistency in base irons leading to more uniform casting properties
* Improved graphite morphology
* Reduced shrinkage and carbide formation
* Improved mechanical properties
* Reduction in pig iron usage
Preseed® enhances the formation of type “A” graphite in grey iron, using closely controlled additions of aluminium and zirconium to condition manganese sulphide particles which act as nuclei for graphite precipitation. Preseed® will also retain oxide activity in the base iron so that oxygen is available for the formation of magnesium silicate nuclei in ductile iron. This will generate more nuclei and increase nodule density.
* Consistency in base irons leading to more uniform casting properties
* Improved graphite morphology
* Reduced shrinkage and carbide formation
* Improved mechanical properties
* Reduction in pig iron usage
Product category: Ferro-alloys
Topseed® conditioner
Topseed® conditioner has been designed as a cover material for MgFeSi in the treatment ladle. Topseed® has been shown to improve Mg recovery and make a positive contribution to the nucleation levels in the iron. Stability of magnesium recovery is considerably improved, which enables optimisation of nodulariser additions. At the same time, Topseed® can change the slag form to an easily removable condition, avoiding slag build-up in critical areas and eliminating the need for coagulants.
* Improves magnesium recovery
* Conditions the slag
* Increases residual nucleation levels
* Improves process stability
* Improves magnesium recovery
* Conditions the slag
* Increases residual nucleation levels
* Improves process stability
Product category: Alloying metals, master alloys
ElekSil™ : silicon alloys for electrical steel
Silicon is the main alloying element in the manufacture of electrical steel. Our ElekSil™ portfolio of innovative Si alloys is especially designed to improve processes of our customers producing electrical steel.
Electrical steel is used to produce magnetic cores for motors, generators and transformers. The demand for such steel is increasing in all regions, driven by power generation growth, increasing electrification and strong focus on reducing CO2 emissions. These trends are giving new opportunities to electrical steel producers, as developing better grades is a mean to increase electric machines’ efficiency. New electrical steel grades are also essential for motors used in hybrid and electric vehicles.
Electrical steels are alloyed with up to about 3.5% silicon. ElekSil™ silicon alloys are key raw materials to bring silicon units to the steel melt, while ensuring improved processes.
Each electrical steel producer is unique, with specific processes and product porfolios. This is why our ElekSil™ range contains several solutions tailor-made for each of our customers. Together, we will find the best solution for your needs while maximizing value creation.
Electrical steel is used to produce magnetic cores for motors, generators and transformers. The demand for such steel is increasing in all regions, driven by power generation growth, increasing electrification and strong focus on reducing CO2 emissions. These trends are giving new opportunities to electrical steel producers, as developing better grades is a mean to increase electric machines’ efficiency. New electrical steel grades are also essential for motors used in hybrid and electric vehicles.
Electrical steels are alloyed with up to about 3.5% silicon. ElekSil™ silicon alloys are key raw materials to bring silicon units to the steel melt, while ensuring improved processes.
Each electrical steel producer is unique, with specific processes and product porfolios. This is why our ElekSil™ range contains several solutions tailor-made for each of our customers. Together, we will find the best solution for your needs while maximizing value creation.
Product category: Alloying metals, master alloys
Special silicon ferroalloys for steel
Whether you are looking for a special Si based ferroalloy to support and solve challenges in your production or for the development of new and better steel grades, Elkem is your partner!
We have an extensive portfolio of special silicon ferroalloys and always welcome new requests. In addition, we support our customers and share our expertise in optimizing the use of our products. In close technical cooperation with our customers, we develop new Si-based ferroalloys to help them improve their processes.
Elkem has supplied special silicon ferroalloy to the steel industry for many decades. Today we mainly supply special silicon ferroalloys grades with low levels of titanium, aluminium, carbon and with critical trace elements, according to the most stringent requirements. These special silicon alloys are used in the production of special steel qualities, such as electrical steel, stainless steel, bearing steel, spring steel, and tire cord steel.
Importance of silicon in steelmaking
Si-based ferroalloy (FeSi) is an alloy of silicon and iron and is an important additive in the manufacture of steel products. Silicon in the form of ferrosilicon is used to remove oxygen from the steel and as an alloying element to improve the final quality of the steel. Silicon increases strength and wear resistance, elasticity (spring steels), scale resistance (heat resistant steels) and lowers electrical conductivity and magnetostriction (electrical steels).
We have an extensive portfolio of special silicon ferroalloys and always welcome new requests. In addition, we support our customers and share our expertise in optimizing the use of our products. In close technical cooperation with our customers, we develop new Si-based ferroalloys to help them improve their processes.
Elkem has supplied special silicon ferroalloy to the steel industry for many decades. Today we mainly supply special silicon ferroalloys grades with low levels of titanium, aluminium, carbon and with critical trace elements, according to the most stringent requirements. These special silicon alloys are used in the production of special steel qualities, such as electrical steel, stainless steel, bearing steel, spring steel, and tire cord steel.
Importance of silicon in steelmaking
Si-based ferroalloy (FeSi) is an alloy of silicon and iron and is an important additive in the manufacture of steel products. Silicon in the form of ferrosilicon is used to remove oxygen from the steel and as an alloying element to improve the final quality of the steel. Silicon increases strength and wear resistance, elasticity (spring steels), scale resistance (heat resistant steels) and lowers electrical conductivity and magnetostriction (electrical steels).
Product category: Alloying metals, master alloys
BriqSil®
BriqSil® is Elkem‘s high quality ferrosilicon briquette.
Ferrosilicon briquettes are increasingly used by steel producers for 2 main purposes
* as a source of heat in BOF
* as a deoxidation and alloying element as alternative to standard FeSi
Advantages of BriqSil®
* Convenient substitute to standard FeSi
* Could be tailor-made to specific customer needs
* Solid compression of pure material, convenient in usage with limited dust challenges
* Easy to transport
Ferrosilicon briquettes are increasingly used by steel producers for 2 main purposes
* as a source of heat in BOF
* as a deoxidation and alloying element as alternative to standard FeSi
Advantages of BriqSil®
* Convenient substitute to standard FeSi
* Could be tailor-made to specific customer needs
* Solid compression of pure material, convenient in usage with limited dust challenges
* Easy to transport
About us
Company details
About Elkem
Founded in 1904, Elkem is one of the world’s leading suppliers of silicon-based advanced materials with operations throughout the entire value chain from quartz to specialty silicones, as well as attractive market positions in specialty ferrosilicon alloys and Carbon materials.
Headquartered in Oslo, the company’s 27 production sites and extensive network of sales offices and agents around the world ensure proximity to customers and access to attractive end markets.
Elkem’s over 6000 skilled employees and significant R&D activities provide a solid basis for further technology-driven growth.