Carbon: Sourcing, Types, and Applications for Industrial Buyers
As global demand for industrial materials grows, carbon remains a critical component across manufacturing sectors. This guide provides practical insights for buyers looking to source reliable carbon products from China - the world's leading supplier of industrial chemicals.
How to Find Reliable Carbon from China in 2025
China dominates global carbon production, offering competitive pricing without compromising quality. When sourcing:
- Verify supplier certifications (ISO 9001, REACH compliance)
- Request third-party lab test reports
- Check minimum order quantities (MOQs typically 1-5 tons)
- Confirm lead times (usually 2-4 weeks for standard grades)
Top industrial zones for carbon production include Shandong, Henan, and Jiangsu provinces, where over 60% of China's carbon manufacturers operate.
What Buyers Should Know Before Buying Carbon from China
Key considerations include:
- Shipping costs (carbon is heavy - factor in bulk container rates)
- Import duties (varies by country, typically 3-8%)
- Payment terms (30% deposit is standard)
- Quality control (insist on pre-shipment inspection)
Case Study: A German automotive parts manufacturer reduced material costs by 22% after switching to a verified Chinese carbon supplier, maintaining identical technical specifications.
Types of Carbon
Major industrial variants include:
| Type | Purity | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Graphite | 90-99.9% | Lubricants, batteries |
| Carbon Black | 97-99% | Tires, plastics |
| Activated Carbon | 85-95% | Water filtration |
Functions and features of Carbon
Carbon's unique properties make it indispensable:
- High thermal conductivity (3-5 times better than copper)
- Excellent electrical conductivity
- Temperature resistance (up to 3,000°C in inert atmospheres)
- Chemical inertness
Scenarios of Carbon
Industrial applications span:
- Energy: Battery anodes (graphite demand grew 35% in 2023)
- Manufacturing: Steel production (1kg carbon needed per 2kg steel)
- Environmental: Air/water purification systems
How to Choose Carbon
Selection criteria:
- Define technical specifications (ash content, particle size)
- Compare bulk pricing (typically $800-$2,500/ton)
- Evaluate supplier production capacity
- Review after-sales support
Carbon Q & A
Q: What's the lead time for carbon orders from China?
A: Standard orders ship within 15-20 days; expedited options available.
Q: How do Chinese carbon prices compare globally?
A: Typically 15-30% lower than European/North American suppliers.
Q: What packaging options exist for bulk carbon?
A: 25kg bags, 1-ton super sacks, or loose bulk containers.
Q: Can I get customized carbon specifications?
A: Yes, most Chinese manufacturers offer tailored particle sizes and purity levels.
Q: What's the minimum order quantity?
A: MOQs start at 500kg for standard grades.
