Silicon Iron
Silicon Iron
Call 0121 544 5808 Today
Bespoke Manufacturing
Instant Quote Service
Worldwide Delivery
Various Gauges/Thicknesses
Bespoke Manufacturing
Instant Quote Service
Worldwide Delivery
Various Gauges/Thicknesses
Stephens Gaskets is a trusted UK manufacturer and supplier of Silicon Iron, also known as Silicon Steel or Electrical Steel.
This high-performance alloy offers superior magnetic permeability, low core losses, and exceptional thermal stability, making it a vital material for transformers, motors, generators, and precision-engineered components.
What Is Silicon Iron?
Silicon Iron is an alloy primarily composed of iron with 1 – 4.5% silicon.
Adding silicon enhances the metal’s magnetic and electrical efficiency, reduces energy losses, and improves heat resistance.
Key Properties of Silicon Iron
- High Electrical Resistivity: Reduces eddy current losses in magnetic fields.
- Low Hysteresis Loss: Improves energy efficiency and magnetic responsiveness.
- Excellent Magnetic Permeability: Allows magnetic flux to flow easily.
- Thermal Stability & Corrosion Resistance: Withstands oxidation and heat.
Whether you need silicon iron for electrical applications or custom-machined parts, Stephens Gaskets delivers precision, consistency, and fast turnaround.
Benefits of Silicon Iron
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| High Magnetic Permeability | Enables efficient energy transfer and stronger magnetic performance. |
| Low Core (Hysteresis) Loss | Reduces heat build-up and power consumption. |
| Low Core (Hysteresis) Loss | Reduces heat build-up and power consumption. |
| Reduced Eddy Currents | Silicon increases resistivity, improving AC efficiency. |
| Excellent Thermal Stability | Performs reliably under high temperatures and repeated cycles. |
| Corrosion Resistance | Withstands oxidation and extends component lifespan. |
| Dimensional Stability | Maintains precision under load and thermal expansion. |
Ideal for Electrical, Automotive, Aerospace, and Industrial manufacturing.
Applications of Silicon Iron
Silicon iron is used in industries that demand efficiency, reliability, and performance under magnetic and thermal stress:
1. Electrical Applications
- Transformer and inductor cores.
- Electric motor laminations.
- Generator components.
- Magnetic cores for relays and sensors.
2. Magnetic Applications
- Electromagnets and actuators.
- Sensors and magnetic shields.
- Energy storage systems.
3. Precision Engineering
- Gaskets, shims, and washers where magnetic neutrality or heat resistance is required.
- Laminations and clutch plates in rotating assemblies.
4. Specialty Equipment
- MRI machines and scientific instrumentation requiring magnetic control.
Materials Used in Manufacturing
Stephens Gaskets uses silicon iron alongside other performance alloys to meet industry-specific requirements:
| Material | Application | Advantage |
|---|---|---|
| Silicon Iron | Transformers, motors, gaskets | Magnetic efficiency, stability |
| Stainless Steel (304/316) | Food, chemical, marine | Corrosion resistance |
| Mild Steel | Structural, low-spec gaskets | Cost-effective and machinable |
| Phosphor Bronze | Electrical contacts, washers | Wear-resistant, conductive |
| Copper & Alloys | Heat exchangers, seals | Thermal & electrical conductivity |
| Inconel/Nickel Alloys | Turbines, aerospace | Strength and oxidation resistance |
Common Pain Points (and How We Solve Them)
| Pain Point | Stephens Gaskets’ Solution |
|---|---|
| Brittleness at higher silicon content | Controlled alloying and precision machining prevent cracking. |
| Higher material cost | Long-term savings through energy efficiency and durability. |
| Complex machining | Advanced CNC and stamping retain magnetic properties. |
| Corrosion in harsh environments | Protective coatings and passivation options available. |
| Availability of specific grades | Large UK stock and quick turnaround for custom orders. |
| Thermal expansion in assemblies | In-house tolerance testing ensures dimensional accuracy. |
FAQs – Silicon Iron
What is silicon iron used for?
It’s used in transformers, motors, generators, and precision-engineered components that require high magnetic and thermal performance.
What are the advantages over mild or stainless steel?
Silicon iron offers superior magnetic efficiency, lower energy loss, and better heat resistance.
Can Stephens Gaskets manufacture custom silicon iron parts?
Yes – we produce Custom Gaskets, Shims, Washers, and Laminations from silicon iron to your specification.
Is silicon iron expensive?
It costs more than mild steel, but provides long-term savings through improved efficiency and reduced maintenance.
What grades or thicknesses are available?
We supply a range of silicon content (1-4.5%) and sheet thicknesses from 0.2 mm to 1 mm depending on your requirements.
Stephens Gaskets is the UK’s trusted Silicon Iron Manufacturer and precision component supplier.
From raw materials to custom-cut parts, we deliver quality, performance, and reliability in every order.
Call: 0121 544 5808 | Email: sales@stephensgaskets.co.uk
Request a Silicon Iron quote today.