Both forms have distinct uses and are integral to efficient steel production, with lumps preferred for direct furnace use and fines often processed before use.

Compressed, high-iron-content balls created from iron ore fines. Enable better air flow in blast furnaces enhancing fuel efficiency and reducing impurities in the final steel product.

A hard, crystalline mineral composed of silicon and oxygen. Quartz's hardness and resistance to weathering make it essential in various industrial applications.

Essential in steelmaking as it removes oxygen and sulfur impurities. Iron ore with higher manganese content is often preferred for specialty steels, impacting both demand and pricing in the trading market.

Coal is a core traded mineral, essential for power generation and steel production. It's trade hinges on type and quality with quality control and logistics to ensure a reliable supply for energy and industrial needs.

Minerals like chromite which is essential source of chromium, used in stainless steel production and alloys for its durability while bauxite is crucial for aluminum production, widely applied in construction industries.