Not all iron ore is created equal
Sponge iron producers, DRI plants, and integrated steel mills all care deeply about which iron ore they feed in - Fe content, gangue, moisture, and reducibility drive both process efficiency and final steel quality.
Hematite (Fe2O3)
The premium ore. Typical Fe content 58-65%. Reddish-brown, easily reducible, low moisture. India is the fifth-largest hematite reserve holder globally, with major mines in Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Karnataka.
Magnetite (Fe3O4)
Higher Fe potential (up to 70% after beneficiation) but requires more processing energy. Naturally magnetic, which makes separation cheaper. Common in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.
Limonite
Lower grade (35-55% Fe) with high moisture content. Cheaper but process penalties can wipe out the cost saving. Used mainly by smaller sponge iron plants.
What buyers should ask sellers
Certificate of analysis (Fe, SiO2, Al2O3, P, S, LOI), size distribution (typically -10+3mm for lump, -3mm for fines), and moisture at loading and delivery. Contracts should specify penalties for out-of-spec on all four parameters.
Browse iron ore listings from Indian miners on The Loha Bazaar with published assays and traceable dispatch history.