English
Ferrovanadium is an iron–vanadium alloy produced by reducing vanadium oxides (mainly V₂O₅) with carbon or aluminum in an electric furnace, then combining with iron. The vanadium content determines grade: FeV40 (~40 % V), FeV50 (~50 % V), FeV80 (~80 % V).
| Property | Detail |
|---|---|
| Vanadium content | 40–80 % (grade dependent) |
| Melting point | ~1500–1600 °C (varies with V content) |
| Density | ~6.5–7.0 g/cm³ |
| Reactivity | Reacts with oxygen/nitrogen at high T; forms stable carbides/nitrides |
| Appearance | Lumps, crushed pieces, or powder |
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Reduction: V₂O₅ + Al/C → metallic V (thermite or carbothermic process).
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Alloying: Molten V is mixed with iron in electric arc furnace.
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Refining: Adjust composition, remove excess impurities.
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Casting/Shaping: Formed into lumps or powder for industrial use.
Ferrovanadium is primarily used to add vanadium to other metals:
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Steel Industry (~85 % of global use)
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HSLA steels: lighter, stronger structures.
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Tool steels: longer tool life.
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Cast Iron: Improves ductility and wear resistance.
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Non‑Ferrous Alloys: Enhances high‑temperature performance in Ti and Ni alloys.
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Allows precise control of vanadium content in steel melts.
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Improves mechanical properties at low addition rates.
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Enhances hardenability and temper resistance.
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Reduces section thickness → material savings.
| Grade | Vanadium % | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| FeV40 | 38–42 | General steelmaking, rebar, structural steels |
| FeV50 | 48–52 | High-performance tool steels, auto parts |
| FeV80 | 78–82 | Premium alloys, aerospace, specialty steel |
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Addition method: Added in ladle during steelmaking or in furnace charge.
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Purity: Low Al/Si versions for cleaner steels.
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Cost: Higher V content increases price; choose grade based on property needs.