Lead Ingots: Sourcing, Types, and Buyer Tips for 2025
As global demand for lead ingots continues to rise, buyers face challenges in finding reliable suppliers and understanding product specifications. This comprehensive guide provides practical insights for businesses looking to source high-quality lead ingots, particularly from China - the world's largest producer.
How to Find Reliable Lead Ingots from China in 2025
The Chinese lead market offers competitive pricing but requires careful supplier vetting. Follow these steps:
- Verify supplier certifications (ISO 9001, RoHS compliance)
- Request recent third-party quality test reports
- Check production capacity (minimum 500 tons/month for stable supply)
- Review export experience (preferably 3+ years international trade)
Top industrial zones for lead production include Henan, Hunan, and Yunnan provinces, where 68% of China's lead smelting capacity is concentrated.
What Buyers Should Know Before Buying Lead Ingots from China
Key considerations when importing lead ingots:
- Pricing typically ranges $1,800-$2,300/ton (2024 benchmark)
- Standard purity levels: 99.97%-99.99%
- Common ingot sizes: 25kg, 50kg blocks
- Shipping options: FOB, CIF, or EXW terms
Pro tip: Negotiate MOQ (Minimum Order Quantity) based on your annual consumption - most Chinese suppliers offer better rates for 20+ ton orders.
Types of Lead Ingots
Understanding product variations ensures you get the right material:
| Type | Purity | Common Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Lead | 99.99% | Battery manufacturing |
| Secondary Lead | 99.97% | Radiation shielding |
| Antimonial Lead | 94-97% Pb + Sb | Industrial alloys |
Functions and features of Lead Ingots
Key characteristics that make lead ingots valuable:
- High density (11.34 g/cm³) for effective radiation shielding
- Excellent corrosion resistance
- Low melting point (327.5°C) for easy casting
- Superior malleability and ductility
Scenarios of Lead Ingots
Industrial applications driving demand:
- Battery production (75% of global lead consumption)
- Radiation protection in medical facilities
- Construction industry (roof flashing, soundproofing)
- Marine and automotive ballast
How to Choose Lead Ingots
Selection criteria based on application needs:
- For batteries: ≥99.97% purity with low antimony content
- For radiation shielding: High-density primary lead
- For alloys: Specify required additive percentages
Always request material certificates showing actual composition rather than relying solely on supplier claims.
Lead Ingots Q & A
Q: What's the price trend for lead ingots in 2025?
A: Analysts project stable prices between $1,900-$2,100/ton, with potential 3-5% fluctuations based on LME trends and energy costs.
Q: How to verify lead purity before shipment?
A: Insist on independent lab testing (SGS/BV) with samples taken during production, not just from stock.
Q: What's the typical lead time from Chinese suppliers?
A: Standard production takes 15-20 days after order confirmation, plus 30-45 days shipping for sea freight.
Q: Are there alternatives to lead ingots for radiation shielding?
A> While materials like tungsten exist, lead remains the most cost-effective option for most applications.
Q: How should lead ingots be stored?
A: Keep in dry, well-ventilated areas away from acids and oxidizing materials. Stack no more than 3 layers high.
