How sponge iron produced and the use of sponge iron?
Sometimes known as direct-reduced iron, sponge iron is a product
that is produced using iron ore. The iron ore is often in the form
of pellets or lumps, and is subjected to a reduction process that
is created by the use of a reducing gas that emits from coal or a
natural gas source. Sponge iron can be produced in several
different types of furnaces, including coke or charcoal ovens,
blast furnaces, and basic oxygen furnaces.
There are several benefits associated with sponge iron that
allow it to compete effectively with other types of smelted irons.
One has to do with the actual composition of the final product
itself. For example, this type of iron is considered richer than
pig iron, another type of iron commonly produced in blast furnaces.
Direct-reduced iron has a slightly higher iron content, which often
makes it better suited for use in electric furnaces.
In addition, the gases emitted during the production of sponge
iron can be harvested and used in various other applications. This
by-product of the iron making process helps to offset the cost of
producing the iron, as well as aid in keeping other processes that
require the gas for proper production. Sponge iron can also be used
to produce a powdered ore that works very well when mixed with
other metals in the production of different types of iron-based
products.
One of the more common uses for sponge iron is the creation of
wrought iron. Iron of this type is helpful in the creation of
ornamental objects for use around the house, such as decorative
grills for screen doors, burglar bars for windows, and even for
various types of wall hangings. Sponge iron is also often used for
the manufacture of components used to create durable lawn and patio
furniture. When properly treated, wrought iron furniture can easily
resist deterioration from the weather, and last for a number of
years.
In recent years, refinements to the production of sponge iron
have made it possible to reduce the iron without necessarily having
to melt the ore. Because the iron can be made into pellets and even
into powder, it is an economic and useful substitute for the scrap
metal sometimes used by steel manufacturers. The amount of time and
resources required to produce sponge iron is minimal, so it is
possible to manufacture large amounts quickly, a fact that only
adds to the advantages of this type of iron product.