Foundry coke is a high‑carbon fuel used as a reducing agent and heat source in cupola furnaces for iron casting. Its performance depends on fixed carbon, ash, volatile matter, sulfur, and mechanical strength.
Typical values for foundry coke supplied for cupola operation are shown below. Actual values can be adjusted according to project requirements.
| Parameter | Typical Range | Test Method |
|---|---|---|
| Fixed Carbon (wt%) | 85 – 92 | ASTM D3174 |
| Ash (wt%) | 4 – 8 | ASTM D3174 |
| Volatile Matter (wt%) | 1 – 3 | ASTM D3175 |
| Sulfur (wt%) | 0.5 – 1.0 | ASTM D4239 |
| Size (mm) | 10 – 80 (lump) / 5 – 20 (nut) | Sieving |
| Micum Index (M40) | ≥ 70 | ISO 1019 |

Foundry coke serves three primary functions in a cupola furnace: providing the necessary reduction temperature, acting as a carbon source for iron carburization, and generating the updraft that sustains the melt column. The choice of coke size and reactivity directly influences melt rate, metal temperature, and silicon pickup.
Each batch undergoes systematic sampling according to ISO 9001‑guided procedures. Fixed carbon and ash are determined by proximate analysis; sulfur by combustion‑infrared; size distribution by mechanical sieving; strength by Micum tumbling test. Results are recorded and linked to the production lot for traceability.
Only material that meets the agreed specification range is released for shipment. Deviations trigger a hold and investigation before release.
Foundry coke is shipped in bulk or in moisture‑protected bags to prevent degradation during transit. Bulk shipments use covered rail gondolas or sealed truck trailers with liner bags. Bagged options include 25 kg polypropylene sacks with UV stabilizer, palletized and stretch‑wrapped.
Customers can specify target fixed carbon, maximum ash, sulfur limits, and size grading to match furnace design and desired metal chemistry. Adjustments are made during coke selection and blending, and are validated through the same QC protocol.
Typical customization ranges:
Q: Can the size distribution be customized?
A: Yes. Coke can be screened to specific lump, nut, or fines fractions based on furnace charging practice.
Q: What information is required for a quotation?
A: Required details include desired fixed carbon, ash, sulfur limits, size grading, quantity, delivery destination, and any packaging preference.
Q: How is quality verified before shipment?
A: Each lot undergoes proximate analysis, sulfur testing, size sieving, and Micum strength testing. A certificate of analysis is provided with the shipment.
Q: What lead time should be expected?
A: Standard lead time is 2–4 weeks after PO receipt, depending on order size and logistics.
Q: Are samples available for testing?
A: Representative samples (up to 5 kg) can be arranged upon request, with sampling costs credited against the first order.
To discuss your specific foundry coke requirements, provide the technical parameters and quantity needed. Our team will return a detailed quotation and lead time.
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