Ferroboron (FeB) is a ferroalloy that combines iron and boron. The metal, which contains 17.5% to 20% boron, is used to make boron steels. It is a combination of iron (Fe) and boron (B). Boron concentration in this alloy ranges from 15% to 25% by weight. It is a ferromagnetic substance, which means it can be magnetized and retains its magnetic properties even after being removed from an external magnetic field.
Ferroboron is well-known for its hardness and is frequently utilized as an abrasive material in a variety of applications. Because of its hardness, ferroboron has good wear resistance, making it appropriate for applications involving friction and abrasive wear. Because of its distinct qualities, it is widely used in a variety of industrial applications. Boron content in ferroboron normally ranges from 10% to 20%.
Description
Ferroboron is a ferroalloy comprising iron and boron with a boron concentration ranging from 17.5 to 20%. It is made by either carbothermic reduction of boric acid in an electric arc furnace with carbon steel or aluminothermic reduction of boric acid in the presence of iron. The machinability of ferroboron varies depending on the composition and processing processes used. It may be more difficult to machine than some other materials.
Ferroboron is used to improve the hardenability of C-Mn and other low alloy steels, and it can also act as a nitrogen scavenger in steel and in the manufacturing of NdFeB magnets.
Applications
Ferroboron has been used in different industries and applications, such as:
- Manufacturing of abrasives and cutting tools.
- Additive in steel production to improve certain properties.
- Magnetic materials and components.
- Hard-facing applications to improve the wear resistance of surfaces.
In the steel industry, ferroboron is frequently employed as a hardening agent. It improves the hardness, strength, and wear resistance of steel when added to it. This makes it ideal for the production of tools, industrial components, and wear-resistant parts. It is employed as a deoxidizing agent in the steelmaking process, assisting in the removal of undesired oxygen and other impurities from the molten steel.
Ferroboron can operate as a grain refiner in some metal alloys, stimulating the creation of fine-grained structures that can improve the material’s mechanical properties.
