Ferronickel is a ferroalloy that contains about 35% nickel and 65% iron. It is a shiny, metallic solid material Ferronickel is produced by the rotary kiln-electric furnace (RKEF) smelting process from lateritic nickel ores. It is also produced from the carbothermic reduction of serpentinic minerals, such as serpentine, limonite, or garnierite.
Ferronickel is produced in the form of small ingots or water-granulated “beans” that are convenient for adding to alloy-making furnaces.
Ferronickel can be used as a substitute for nickel pellets or nickel cathodes, where it can allow potential cost savings.
Low-carbon ferronickel can be used directly in stainless steel manufacture. However, ferronickel that is high in carbon can have a silicon content as high as 3%.