Market Reference Products
The European tungsten market is quoted through two reference products: ferrotungsten (for example grades with W ≥ 75%) and ammonium paratungstate (APT), the intermediate product of tungsten refining. Both are published regularly by market information services such as the CFO (commodity price reporting) services.
What Drives European Prices
European ferrotungsten and APT prices are driven by several factors:
Tungsten concentrate supply: mine output in China, Vietnam and other producing regions directly affects the raw material cost
Ferroalloy demand: consumption by tool steel, high-speed steel and special alloy producers in Europe
Energy and processing costs: refining and ferroalloy smelting are energy intensive
Exchange rates and logistics: the euro-dollar exchange rate and freight affect delivered costs
Inventory levels: stock positions of traders and consumers influence short-term moves
Price Behavior
Prices are published as ranges (for example a low-high band in US dollars per kilogram for ferrotungsten) and change weekly with market conditions. Historical quotes are references only: actual transaction prices depend on quantity, specification, delivery terms and the negotiation date.
Advice for Buyers
For current ferrotungsten or APT pricing, request quotations from suppliers with the full specification: tungsten content, impurity limits, form (lump, powder, briquette), quantity and delivery terms. Multi-source comparison is recommended because spot prices move frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is APT?
A: Ammonium paratungstate, the main intermediate product of tungsten refining, from which tungsten metal, tungsten carbide and ferrotungsten are produced.
Q: What is the typical tungsten content of ferrotungsten?
A: Commercial grades usually contain 70-80% tungsten, for example the W ≥ 75% grade commonly quoted in Europe.
Q: Why do tungsten prices fluctuate?
A: Because of changes in mine supply, alloy demand, energy costs and exchange rates; prices are published weekly and move with market conditions.
Q: What are the two reference products in the European tungsten market?
A: Ferrotungsten, for example grades with W at least 75%, and ammonium paratungstate (APT), the intermediate product of tungsten refining.
Q: How are European ferrotungsten prices published?
A: As ranges, for example a low-high band in US dollars per kilogram, changing weekly with market conditions.
Q: Are historical quotes actual transaction prices?
A: No, they are references only; actual transaction prices depend on quantity, specification, delivery terms and the negotiation date.
Q: What should a buyer provide for a firm quotation?
A: The full specification: tungsten content, impurity limits, particle size, quantity and delivery terms.
