FERROUS METALS

Iron Ores

Iron ores are compounds of iron with non-metallic elements. They also contain impurities such as carbon, manganese, phosphorous, silicon and sulphur. The iron ores are extracted from the earth by mining operations.

While selecting iron ores, the following aspects should be considered:

1. The iron ores should be rich in metallic iron content and have less impurities.
2. The location of mines should not have constraints which may lead to complications during quarrying operations.
3. The location of mines should possibly be linked to the surrounding towns by suitable transport facilities.
4. The impurities should not contaminate the rich iron ore. However, there are some substances that increase the value of lean iron ore, which are to be considered.
5. Any initial treatment made on the iron ore should be in a position to increase the output of iron.

Important varieties of iron ores are haematite, limonite, magnetite, pyrite and siderite.