Ore shortage’ hitting steel production, says sponge iron industry, seeks ban on exports
- The domestic sponge iron manufacturers fear a continuous shortage of iron ore may bring it to the brink of collapse.
- Sponge iron is used as a raw material to make finished steel in electric-arc or induction furnaces.
Making Sponge Iron: A Viable Steel Source
- Sponge iron, also known as Direct Reduced Iron (DRI), is an alternative material in steel production.
- It's created by removing oxygen from iron ore using a special gas mixture rich in hydrogen and carbon monoxide.
- This process creates a porous material with a honeycomb-like structure, resembling a sponge under a microscope - hence the name.
Why is it Important?
- Sponge iron plays a crucial role in the steel industry for several reasons:
- Scrap Alternative: Since high-quality scrap metal can be expensive and limited, sponge iron acts as a reliable substitute for electric and induction furnaces.
- Efficiency Booster: Sponge iron's consistent composition and lack of impurities improve the efficiency of the steel-making process.
- Overall, sponge iron offers a valuable solution for steel production by addressing scrap limitations and enhancing furnace effectiveness.
Prelims Takeaway
- Sponge Iron
- Iron and steel industry