Process for preparing improved silicon carbide powder

Improved silicon carbide powder is prepared by carbothermal reduction of silica by introducing .beta.-SiC powder simultaneously with iron in the starting composition resulting into a precursor powder which after complete reduction contains at least 90% SiC preferably rich in the .beta.-phase. The main advantage, among others, is cost effectiveness. Silicon carbide powder finds wide usage in the manufacture of products suitable for refractory and engineering applications.