Thermal plasma technology is emerging as one of the eco-friendly routes for processing fine wastes from metallurgical and allied industries. In the thermal plasma process, high density of ionic charges makes the uniform heat transfer to the fine material. Availability of very high temperature, high energy flux and plasma state condition in the plasma arc allows the reactions to be completed in short duration. The present paper deals with the use of thermal plasma technology for the production of pig iron from various ore sources. Firstly, the most important application of using iron ore fines has been discussed and some of the results are presented for recovery of iron to the extent of 95% from low grade iron ore fines. Secondly, pig iron obtained from secondary sources i.e ilmenite and red mud (waste generated from aluminum industry) by thermal plasma has been discussed and results are presented. Finally the need for proper development of an integrated technology for the use of different raw material sources for making pig iron is emphasized in the context of utilization of low grade and off grade iron ores.
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