Ferro-Molybdenum (FeMo 60/65/70)
Ferro-Molybdenum (FeMo) is a master alloy of Iron (Fe) and Molybdenum (Mo), containing between 60% and 70% Molybdenum. It is the most common and practical way to introduce Molybdenum into molten steel. Molybdenum is an extremely powerful and versatile alloying element prized for its ability to dramatically increase hardenability, high-temperature strength, creep resistance, and corrosion resistance.
The purity is typically defined by its Mo content (e.g., 60, 65, 70%) and controlled low levels of residual elements like sulfur (S), phosphorus (P), and copper (Cu).
Main Function and Mechanism
Molybdenum is a strong carbide-former and solid-solution strengthener, making it essential for alloys operating under high stress and temperature.
| COMPONENT | CHEMICAL SYMBOL | PROPERTY HIGHLIGHT |
| Molybdenum | Mo | Promotes hardenability, increases high-temperature strength, and enhances pitting corrosion resistance. |
| Iron | Fe | Carrier metal; ensures high density and good dissolution into molten steel. |
| CLASSIFICATION | MELTING POINT | PRIMARY APPLICATION FOCUS |
| Alloying Metal | ~1900°C (3452 F) | Production of HSLA, Tool Steels, and Specialized Stainless Steels. |
Key Performance Metrics
| PROPERTY | TYPICAL PERFORMANCE | MECHANISM OF ADVANTAGE |
| Hardenability | EXTREME | Shifts the TTT curve to the right, allowing for deep hardening and formation of desired microstructures. |
| Creep Resistance | EXCELLENT | Forms finely dispersed, stable Molybdenum carbides that resist movement at high temperatures. |
| Pitting Corrosion | IMPROVED | Critical additive (along with Cr) to stainless steel to prevent localized pitting corrosion in chloride environments. |
1. Enhancement of Mechanical Properties
Molybdenum is highly valued for its strengthening effects across a wide range of temperatures:
- Hardenability: It is one of the most effective elements for increasing a steel’s hardenability. It slows the decomposition of austenite, allowing the steel to be fully hardened even in large cross-sections upon quenching.
- Creep Resistance: In alloys used for hot applications (e.g., boiler tubes, pressure vessels), Mo forms fine, stable carbides (Mo2C) that precipitate within the steel matrix. These precipitates pin the dislocations, dramatically reducing the tendency of the steel to deform permanently over time under high heat and stress (creep).
2. Corrosion Resistance
- Stainless Steels: Molybdenum is added to austenitic stainless steels (e.g., 316 and 317 grades) to enhance their resistance to pitting and crevice corrosion, especially in environments containing chlorides (like seawater or chemical plants). It works by helping the passive chromium oxide layer quickly repair itself when damaged.
3. High-Strength Low-Alloy (HSLA) Steels
FeMo is a key component in HSLA steels, where small amounts of Mo (typically 0.15% to 0.50%) are combined with other elements to achieve superior strength, weldability, and toughness without the cost and weight of high-alloyed grades.
Technical Guidance
- Dissolution: FeMo has a high melting point (~1900°C), which is above the temperature of the molten steel bath.15 It must be added early in the melting process (e.g., to the EAF charge) or mixed with other exothermic (heat-releasing) alloys in the ladle to ensure it completely dissolves and homogenizes into the steel before casting.
- Form: It is typically supplied in crushed lump form (e.g., 10 mm to 50 mm}$ size fractions) to balance density (for penetration) with surface area (for dissolution).
- Purity: Low levels of impurities, particularly Copper, are critical for FeMo used in tool steel and high-end stainless production, as these elements can be detrimental to final mechanical properties.
✨ 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. |
