Ferro-Boron (FeB 10–20%)
Ferro-Boron (FeB) is a master alloy of iron and Boron (B), typically containing 10% to 20% Boron. It is a highly potent additive used in the steel industry for its dramatic effect on the steel’s hardenability and mechanical strength. Boron is one of the most cost-effective and powerful micro-alloying elements, requiring only trace amounts (measured in parts per million, ppm) to achieve significant property improvements.
Main Function and Mechanism
The effectiveness of FeB is due to the strong affinity of Boron for carbon and nitrogen in the steel matrix.
| COMPONENT | CHEMICAL SYMBOL | PROPERTY HIGHLIGHT |
| Boron | B | Extremely potent micro-alloying element; enhances hardenability. |
| Iron | Fe | Carrier metal; ensures high density and good dissolution into molten steel. |
| CLASSIFICATION | MELTING POINT | PRIMARY APPLICATION FOCUS |
| Micro-Alloy | ~1500°C (2732 F) | Hardenability enhancement and grain refinement in specialty steels. |
Key Performance Metrics
| PROPERTY | TYPICAL PERFORMANCE | MECHANISM OF ADVANTAGE |
| Hardenability | EXTREME | Trace amounts of B segregate to austenite grain boundaries, impeding the formation of soft ferrite and promoting the formation of hard martensite upon cooling. |
| Dose Efficiency | HIGH | Effective in the range of 0.0005% to 0.003% (5 to 30 ppm) Boron. |
| Wear Resistance | IMPROVED | Used in hard-facing and wear-resistant applications due to its role in forming hard boride phases. |
The Hardenability Mechanism
Hardenability is the measure of a steel’s ability to form a deep layer of martensite (the hardest microstructure) throughout its thickness when cooled (quenched). Boron is exceptional at promoting this:
- Grain Boundary Effect: When added correctly, Boron atoms preferentially migrate to the austenite grain boundaries.
- Ferrite Nucleation Inhibition: Boron pins the grain boundaries, which are the main nucleation sites for the soft phase (ferrite or pearlite). By inhibiting ferrite formation, the steel’s transformation is delayed, allowing the required slow cooling for martensite formation to penetrate deeper into the material’s cross-section.
This means that a cheaper, low-alloy steel containing FeB can often achieve the same strength and hardness as a much more expensive, high-alloy steel, leading to significant cost savings.
Secondary Applications
- Stainless Steel: Used to enhance neutron absorption properties in some nuclear grades of stainless steel.
- Cast Iron: Small additions can improve wear resistance and stability in certain cast iron grades.
Technical Guidance
- Oxygen and Nitrogen Control (CRITICAL): For Boron to function as a hardenability agent, it must be dissolved in the steel matrix. However, Boron has a strong affinity for oxygen (O) and nitrogen (N). If these elements are not already tied up by other, stronger-reacting elements (AL}, Ti, Zr), the Boron will form inert oxides (B2O3) or nitrides (BN), completely losing its hardening effect.
- Pre-treatment: Therefore, FeB is always added after the steel has been fully killed (deoxidized) and treated to tie up nitrogen (e.g., with Aluminum or Titanium).
- Purity and Form: FeB is typically supplied in crushed lump or granular form and is added to the ladle or furnace after other ferroalloys have dissolved, ensuring the Boron yield is maximized.
✨ Customization Services
We offer product customization services, allowing you to tailor the appearance, dimensions, or specific markings of items like refractory shapes or bricks. This includes options for incorporating specific geometric requirements to ensure seamless integration into your process systems.
🔬 Sampling for Testing & Validation
Free product samples are available for thorough testing and validation. This allows you to confirm the quality, compatibility, and performance of our materials—such as specific bricks, castables, or raw materials—before committing to a full order.
💡 Expertise in Refractory Solutions
Leverage our deep expertise to receive detailed, application-specific refractory solutions. We move beyond just selling products by providing comprehensive plans that encompass material selection, installation guidance, and performance optimization to maximize the lifespan and efficiency of your high-temperature processes.
Rabatec products are exclusively manufactured in facilities that have achieved rigorous ISO certifications across Quality (ISO 9001), Environmental Management, and Occupational Health & Safety. This commitment ensures every product, from refractory bricks to specialized equipment, meets the highest global benchmarks for performance, sustainability, and workplace safety.
📦 Logistics Excellence: Shipping, Packaging, and Marking
Minimizing Risk: We manage all logistics to minimize handling touchpoints and transit shock. Our carriers are pre-vetted for their experience in transporting heavy, fragile, and sensitive industrial materials.
Traceability: Every shipment includes comprehensive documentation and tracking information, providing end-to-end visibility and ensuring precise delivery coordination for your site.
Protection is Paramount: Our packaging strictly follows industry standards to prevent damage, corner chipping, and moisture absorption—especially critical for materials like Basic Refractory Bricks and Refractory Mortars & Mixes.
Robust Palletization: Products are secured on fumigated, high-strength export pallets (e.g., 1100x950mm or similar sturdy dimensions) using heavy-duty strapping and durable protective wrapping (polyethylene sheeting, cardboard, etc.) to withstand long-distance travel and multiple loadings.
Moisture Control: Sensitive materials are protected with appropriate sealing and, where necessary, desiccants or moisture-vapor proof enclosures to maintain the product's integrity until installation.
Clear Identification: All outer packaging is clearly marked on multiple sides with large, legible text for immediate identification and safe handling.
Full Traceability: Markings include all essential data points: Product Name, Quality Grade, Batch Number, Quantity, Net/Gross Weight, Order Number, and the Final Destination/Construction Area. This ensures every pallet can be accounted for and correctly staged upon arrival.
Safety & Compliance: We adhere to all regulatory requirements for marking, labeling, and placarding—especially for any items classified as Dangerous Goods—to ensure full compliance with international and domestic transport regulations.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Question | Elaborated Answer |
Q: What is the Refractoriness Under Load (RUL) of your refractories? | A: Refractoriness Under Load (RUL) is a critical property that defines the maximum temperature our materials can withstand while under compressive stress before deforming (softening). Since we offer a wide range of materials—from Alumina-Silicate Bricks to high-performance Silicon Carbide Bricks—the RUL varies significantly. For specific product data, please refer to the product data sheet or submit a quote request for the material you are interested in. |
Q: Where are the Rabatec refractories and materials produced? | A: Our products are primarily sourced from specialized manufacturing plants in China. Crucially, these facilities have all undergone rigorous audits and achieved comprehensive ISO certifications (Quality, Environment, and Safety), ensuring that production adheres to the highest global standards for consistency and performance. |
Q: What refractory materials does the company offer? | A: We supply a comprehensive portfolio of advanced refractory solutions, including: Shaped Products: Alumina & Silica Bricks, Basic & Specialized Bricks (e.g., Magnesia), SiC & Structural Ceramics, and Precast Shapes. Monolithic Products: Refractory Castables, Mixes & Mortars. Insulation: Insulation Fibre and High-Performance Insulation Products. |
Q: How should I choose the appropriate refractory material for my application? | A: Selecting the correct refractory is paramount to process efficiency. The choice depends on three key factors: 1. Operating Environment: Maximum process temperature and thermal cycling (shock). 2. Chemical Attack: Type of slag, molten metal, or corrosive gas being handled (acidic, neutral, or basic). 3. Mechanical Stress: Abrasion, erosion, and static load requirements. We recommend utilizing our detailed refractory solutions service to consult with our engineers for an optimized, application-specific recommendation. |
Q: Which monolithic material should I choose when patching an existing lining? | A: For patching and minor repairs, the ideal monolithic material depends on the parent lining material, the patching depth, and the need for a rapid return to service. Common choices include: Refractory Mortars & Mixes (for minor joints/surfaces) or Plastic Refractories (for areas requiring physical compaction). Always choose a patch material chemically compatible with the existing lining to ensure proper bonding and service life. |
Q: Can I receive product samples before placing a major order? | A: Yes. We gladly provide product samples for your internal testing and validation purposes. This ensures you can confirm the quality, composition, and fit of the material—such as our Refractory Castables or Alumina-Silicate Bricks—in your specific operational environment before committing to a bulk purchase. |
Q: Do you provide certifications to verify material quality? | A: Absolutely. We provide product-related inspection certificates and quality assurance documentation upon request. This verifies that your order has passed all internal quality control checks and meets the required material specifications and industry standards. |
Q: What measures are taken for product protection during transport? | A: We ensure quick, reliable transport by using robust, industrial packaging that strictly follows industry standards. This includes high-strength palletization, heavy-duty strapping, and weather-resistant wrapping to protect fragile items like bricks and mixes from corner chipping, mechanical damage, and moisture during transit. |
