Method and device for processing iron silicate rock

Abstract

A method is used to process iron silicate rock. At least one component is at least partially removed from the iron silicate rock. At least one component that is different from iron is thus removed from the iron silicate rock. The processed iron silicate rock is used for the production of pig iron or steel. The device for utilizing the processed silicate rock is designed as a device for producing pig iron or steel.

1 - 11 . (canceled) 
     
     
         12 . A process for treating iron silicate rock, comprising the steps of: at least partly removing at least one constituent other than iron from the iron silicate rock; and using the treated iron silicate rock for producing pig iron or steel. 
     
     
         13 . The process according to  claim 12 , wherein the iron silicate rock is treated in a liquid state. 
     
     
         14 . The process according to  claim 12 , wherein the iron silicate rock is treated at a temperature of from about 1300° C. to 1600° C. 
     
     
         15 . The process according to  claim 12 , including introducing a reducing agent. 
     
     
         16 . The process according to  claim 12 , including carrying out the treatment in a plurality of stages. 
     
     
         17 . The process according to  claim 12 , including introducing oxygen for at least part of the time during treatment. 
     
     
         18 . The process according to  claim 12 , including carrying out the treatment within an electric furnace with bottom flushing. 
     
     
         19 . An apparatus for treating iron silicate rock, comprising: a furnace that has a feed facility for a gas, the iron silicate rock being treated in the furnace. 
     
     
         20 . An apparatus for processing treated iron silicate rock, wherein the apparatus is configured as a facility for producing pig iron or steel. 
     
     
         21 . The apparatus according to  claim 20 , the facility is a blast furnace.