Production of high purity niobium master alloys

The metallothermic reduction of niobium oxide with aluminum is the most common production method for the production of high purity niobium containing masteralloys for the production of high grade nickel base superalloys. Usually ferro niobium (FeNb) and nickel niobium (NiNb) are used as masteralloy for this purpose. The luminothermic production process and the two general plant designs, the reduction in ceramic vessels as well as in permanent copper moulds are described, taking into consideration theoretical aspects. Both production methods are suitable for masteralloy production and fulfill the requirements of the superalloy producers. (AU)