Analysis of the bulk refractory raw material market in October

In October, the base price of corundum was raised across the board, the price of bauxite rose steadily, the magnesia market added momentum for price increases, the price of silicon carbide fell again, and the price of flake graphite remained stable.

[Corundum] Under the influence of multiple factors such as tight supply of aluminum ore abroad, good demand for electrolytic aluminum, and futures price increases, the monthly increase of industrial alumina per ton has been nearly 1,000 yuan, so that white corundum and sintered corundum are forced to increase prices. Affected by factors such as tight supply of industrial alumina, rising prices, and difficulties in purchasing, the operating rate of white corundum has declined and the spot supply of white corundum has decreased. Given that the price of industrial alumina is still in an upward channel, white corundum and sintered corundum may still increase in price.

[Bauxite] The price of bauxite has increased, and some manufacturers have not adjusted their prices yet. As the supply of aluminum ore remains tight, prices continue to rise, and bauxite still has room for growth.

[Magnesite] Electric fused magnesia companies are generally bullish and are producing at full capacity to prepare inventory for the next two months. The current market inventory is high. The price of corundum has increased significantly and the supply is insufficient. Refractory enterprises are expected to switch from carbon-free steel-clad bricks to magnesia-carbon bricks, which will drive the consumption of magnesia sand and add momentum to the magnesia sand market.

[Flake graphite] The market demand for flake graphite is sluggish, and large-scale production enterprises maintain normal production with their cost advantages. The market price of flake graphite may still fall. Zhengmu flake graphite has a relatively stable market due to its small output, good demand, tight supply, etc.

Affected by the market conditions of aluminum ore and industrial alumina, the market for alumina-based refractory raw materials may be out of stock and prices may rise. Refractory material companies need to prepare countermeasures.