B23R085 is a premium grade of Cold-Rolled Grain-Oriented (CRGO) silicon steel, renowned for its exceptionally low iron loss and high magnetic permeability. As a high-permeability (Hi-B) material, it often incorporates laser domain refinement (laser etching) to optimize magnetic performance. This grade is a critical component in the manufacturing of high-efficiency transformer cores, particularly for ultra-high voltage (UHV) power grids and green energy infrastructure.
The designation B23R085 follows the naming convention of major Chinese steelmakers (primarily Baosteel):
B – In Baosteel’s designation system, the prefix B identifies grain-oriented electrical steel products manufactured according to the company’s grading convention. (Note: The same grade code may be used by other mills; always refer to the mill certificate.)
23 – Nominal thickness: 0.23 mm.
R – Generally indicates a high-permeability (Hi-B) grain-oriented electrical steel grade, which may incorporate domain-refinement technologies to further reduce core loss.
085 – Maximum guaranteed iron loss at 1.7 T and 50 Hz: 0.85 W/kg.
The superiority of B23R085 lies in its magnetic flux density and low energy dissipation. Below are the standard technical parameters:
| Property | Specification Unit | Typical Value |
|---|---|---|
| Max. Iron Loss (P1.7/50P1.7/50) | W/kg | ≤0.85≤0.85 |
| Min. Magnetic Induction (B800B800) | Tesla (T) | ≥1.88−1.92≥1.88−1.92 |
| Stacking Factor | % | ≥95.5≥95.5 |
| Density | kg/dm3kg/dm3 | 7.65 |
*Note: The B800B800 value (magnetic induction at a field strength of 800 A/m) is the primary indicator of the material’s permeability.*
B23R085 is often categorized as a domain-refined CRGO steel. During production, a laser beam is used to etch the surface of the silicon steel. This process:
Reduces domain spacing – It breaks down large magnetic domains into smaller ones.
Minimizes eddy current loss – By refining the domains, energy dissipated as heat during magnetic cycling is significantly reduced.
Enhances efficiency – Transformers achieve lower no‑load losses, meeting the strictest global energy efficiency standards (e.g., Tier 2 Ecodesign).
Understanding cross-border equivalents is essential for global procurement and engineering design. B23R085 is comparable to the following high-grade CRGO steels:
| Standard / Manufacturer | Equivalent Grade |
|---|---|
| IEC 60404-8-7 | 23R085 |
| Baosteel (China) | B23R085 |
| TISCO (China) | 23TQG085 |
| Nippon Steel (Japan) | 23ZH085 |
| JFE Steel (Japan) | 23JG085 |
| AK Steel (USA) | Carlite 0.23 mm Hi-B |
Compared with conventional 0.27 mm and 0.30 mm CRGO grades, B23R085 offers:
Lower no‑load transformer losses – Directly reduces energy waste.
Higher magnetic induction – Allows more compact core designs.
Smaller transformer core size – Saves material and footprint.
Reduced operating costs – Lower lifetime energy consumption.
Improved energy efficiency compliance – Meets stringent global standards.
| Grade | Thickness (mm) | Core Loss (W/kg @1.7T/50Hz) | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| B23R085 | 0.23 | ≤ 0.85 | Premium high‑efficiency transformers |
| B27R095 | 0.27 | ≤ 0.95 | Standard high‑efficiency transformers |
| B30P105 | 0.30 | ≤ 1.05 | General‑purpose transformers |
Summary: B23R085 provides approximately 10–20% lower core loss than conventional 0.27 mm and 0.30 mm grades, making it a preferred material for energy‑saving transformers in UHV grids, renewable energy systems, and high‑end industrial applications.
Due to its thin gauge (0.23 mm) and ultra‑low loss profile, B23R085 is the material of choice for:
Large power transformers – Step‑up stations and UHV transmission lines where energy conservation is paramount.
Distribution transformers – Urban grids requiring low noise and high efficiency.
Reactors and instrument transformers – Where high magnetic stability is required.
Shunt reactors and converter transformers – Used in renewable energy transmission systems (e.g., wind, solar, HVDC).
A 220 kV power transformer manufactured with B23R085 core laminations can achieve significantly lower no‑load losses compared with transformers built using conventional 0.27 mm CRGO steel, helping utilities reduce lifetime energy consumption and operating costs. In ultra‑high‑voltage (UHV) transmission projects, B23R085 is frequently selected to minimize transformer core losses and improve grid efficiency.
To maintain the electromagnetic integrity of B23R085, specific handling protocols are required:
Stress relief annealing – For laser‑etched grades (permanent refinement), iron loss properties are maintained even after annealing. However, care must be taken not to damage the insulating coating (typically C‑5 insulation).
Core lamination – Precise shearing is required to minimize burrs, which can cause short circuits between laminations and increase eddy current losses.
Packaging – Usually delivered in moisture‑proof, vertically wrapped coils to prevent oxidation and physical deformation of the thin 0.23 mm edges.
GNEE Electric supplies B23R085 CRGO silicon steel coils and cut laminations to transformer manufacturers worldwide.
Available processing services:
Slitting
Cut‑to‑length
Annealed coils
Custom core lamination cutting
Export packaging
Mill test certificates included
Lead times:
Stock material: 7–15 days
Customized orders: 15–40 days
As global energy grids transition to renewable sources, the efficiency of power transformation is critical. B23R085 provides the technical foundation for reducing no‑load losses in electrical networks. Its high magnetic induction allows smaller, lighter transformer designs, reducing the total carbon footprint of electrical infrastructure.
What is the iron loss of B23R085 steel?
The maximum iron loss of B23R085 is 0.85 W/kg when measured at a magnetic flux density of 1.7 Tesla and a frequency of 50 Hz.
Is B23R085 a laser‑etched grade?
B23R085 is typically a high‑permeability (Hi‑B) CRGO steel that may incorporate laser domain refinement to achieve its ultra‑low iron loss specifications.
What is the thickness of B23R085?
The nominal thickness is 0.23 mm, which helps reduce eddy current losses compared to thicker 0.27 mm or 0.30 mm grades.
What is the difference between B23R085 and B27R095?
B23R085 is thinner (0.23 mm vs. 0.27 mm) and has lower core loss (≤0.85 W/kg vs. ≤0.95 W/kg), making it more suitable for premium energy‑efficient transformers.
Is B23R085 suitable for power transformers?
Yes. B23R085 is widely used in power transformers, distribution transformers, and reactors where low no‑load loss and high magnetic permeability are required.
What insulation coating is used on B23R085?
B23R085 is typically supplied with a C‑5 insulation coating that provides excellent interlaminar resistance and coating adhesion.
Can B23R085 be used for shunt reactors?
Yes. Its high magnetic permeability and low loss make it an excellent choice for shunt reactors and converter transformers in renewable energy transmission systems.
