Iron Ore
By Nathan Fisher
What is Iron Ore?
Iron ore is a treasure found while mining. Australia finds lots of iron ore and is one of the world's key iron ore producers.
Iron ore is made up of rocks and minerals from which metallic iron can be extracted. 98% of mined iron is actually used to produce steel.
How is it Extracted?
Before the ore in crushed, screened and blended for export, it goes through a blasting and removal process. After this the ore is melted in a furnace and is alloyed with metals such as nickel, chromium, manganese, vanadium, molybdenum and titanium. After it is alloyed with those metals, it then goes on to produce different types of steel.
What iron is used for?
Lots of growth in developing Asia-Pacific economies has made the production of steel better. These products get used a lot in the services of transportation, construction, machinery, appliances and electronics.
How much iron ore is exported?
The Australian iron ore industry exports lots of their iron produce and this makes them export-orientated. Around 85-90% of their production is exported. In 2011 Australia continued to be the world's largest iron ore exporters in front of Brazil and India.
Where Mining Operations Exist
Most of Australian's iron ore is produced in Pilbara. Other mining operations are also in Koolyanobbing, Jack Hills, Cockatoo Island, Tallering Peak, Koolanooka, Koolan Island, Middleback Ranges, Frances Creek and Savage River.