What is Iron Ore used for?

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ron ore is primarily used as the essential raw material for producing steel, which is then used in a vast array of applications including construction (buildings, bridges), transportation (cars, ships, trains), household appliances (washing machines, ovens), and energy infrastructure (wind turbines). About 98% of all iron ore extracted globally goes into the steel industry, forming the backbone of modern manufacturing and infrastructure worldwide.  
Key applications of steel made from iron ore:

• Transportation:
  Every mode of transport, from cars and trucks to trains, ships, and even planes, relies on steel produced from iron ore. 

• Appliances:
  Everyday household items such as refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers are made with steel. 

• Energy:
  Steel plays a vital role in energy infrastructure, including electricity poles and components for wind turbines. 

• Rail:
  Iron ore is used to create steel for railway tracks, making it essential for the rail industry. 

• Construction:
  Steel is a fundamental component in building skyscrapers, bridges, and other essential infrastructure. 

How iron ore becomes steel: 

• Smelting: Iron ore is heated with coke (from super-heated metallurgical coal) in a blast furnace.

• Molten Pig Iron Production: Air heated to high temperatures (around 1,200°C) is injected into the furnace, which converts the iron ore into molten pig iron and slag.

• Purification: Impurities are removed from the molten pig iron.

• Alloying: Alloying elements are added to the purified iron.

• Final Product: The resulting steel is then cast, cooled, and rolled into its final form for various uses.