Overview
ISO 5448:1981 - Ferrochromium: Specification and conditions of delivery - sets the international requirements for ferrochromium supplied for steelmaking and foundry use. The standard defines ferrochromium (Fe–Cr master alloy with Cr 45.0–95.0% by mass), standard chromium ranges (designations such as FeCr50, FeCr60, FeCr70, FeCr80, FeCr90), and the contractual information, testing and delivery conditions needed to ensure consistent quality for alloying and foundry applications.
Key topics and technical requirements
- Scope and definitions: Ferrochromium defined as an Fe–Cr master alloy with chromium content between 45.0% and 95.0% (m/m). Standard chromium ranges are identified by FeCr designations.
- Consignment constitution: Three accepted lot methods - tapped lot, graded lot, and blended lot - each with limits on variation of melt chromium content within a consignment.
- Chemical composition: Detailed grades for high-, medium- and low‑carbon ferrochromium (and variants for phosphorus, nitrogen and high‑Cr content) are listed in tables (Tables 2–9) specifying limits for Cr, C, Si, P, S, N, etc.
- Particle size: Particle-size classes 1–7 are defined (see Table 10) with specified size ranges and undersize/oversize tolerances; undersize values apply at the point of delivery.
- Sampling and testing: Sampling and sieve analysis are covered (reference to ISO 3713). Chemical analysis is preferably by the potentiometric method in ISO 4140; suppliers must provide an analysis certificate and representative sample on request.
- Dispute and arbitration: Procedures for contradictory and arbitration analysis are defined, including use of an independent arbitrator and agreed analytical methods.
- Despatch, packaging and storage: Requirements to pack, store and transport ferrochromium according to international transport regulations to minimize contamination and ensure safe delivery.
Applications and users
ISO 5448 is used by:
- Steelmakers and foundries specifying alloy additions and charge materials
- Ferroalloy producers and traders preparing product specifications and certificates
- Procurement, quality assurance and inspection teams verifying incoming material
- Metallurgical laboratories performing analysis and arbitration testing
Practical applications include assuring consistent chromium content for alloy design, minimizing impurities that affect steel properties, and defining particle sizes for specific melt/charge handling and furnace feed systems.
Related standards
- ISO 3713 - Ferroalloys: sampling and preparation of samples
- ISO 4140 - Determination of chromium content (potentiometric)
- ISO 565 - Test sieves (nominal aperture sizes)
- ISO 4551 / ISO 4556 - (sieve analysis and sampling methods under development in the original document)
- International transport codes (RID, ADR, IMDG) for safe packaging and shipment
Keywords: ISO 5448, ferrochromium, ferroalloys, specification, chemical composition, particle size, sampling, analysis, steelmaking, foundry.
