What it is
Iron alloys rich in manganese, chromium or silicon, added to molten steel to remove oxygen and set its chemistry. About 80% of output goes into steelmaking.
High-carbon ferromanganese (IS 1171)Silicomanganese (IS 1470)High-carbon ferrochrome / charge chrome (IS 1170)Ferrosilicon (IS 1110)Noble alloys: ferromolybdenum (IS 1469), ferrovanadium (IS 1466)
Where imports come from
Bulk alloys are mostly made in India; ores for some (manganese ore, chromite) are partly imported.
Rules before you buy or sell
- BIS Standard Mark (ISI) is compulsory under the Steel and Steel Products (Quality Control) Order, 2024: IS 1170, IS 1171, IS 1470 (from 8 November 2024), IS 1110, IS 4409 ferronickel, IS 1469, IS 1466. Each consignment needs a test certificate from a BIS-licensed maker.
- Imports of pig iron, sponge iron, ferro alloys, remelting scrap and semi-finished and flat or long steel are 'free' under ITC(HS) 2022 (as summarised in IMYB 2024), but QCO-covered grades still need the BIS mark.
- Check the current import and export policy for your exact 8-digit HS code in the DGFT ITC(HS) schedules.
Storage and handling
Store dry in bags or bins by grade; fines and lumps separate.
Businesses that use it
Steel Castings (Induction Furnace Foundry) →Stainless Steel Ingots (Induction Furnace) →Investment Casting (Lost Wax Process) →