In a recent operational overview, Hibbing Taconite detailed its innovative processes for producing high-quality iron ore pellets, essential for steel manufacturing. The facility employs a unique oscillating conveyor system to spread green balls across a furnace width of four meters, initiating a heat hardening process that enhances the pellets' durability and uniformity.

The hardening process, which lasts approximately 30 minutes, involves gradually heating the green balls to 2,315 degrees Fahrenheit before cooling them to 200 degrees. This meticulous procedure ensures that the pellets, averaging 66% iron and 4.5% silica, are optimally sized for efficient transport and use in blast furnaces.

Hibbing Taconite's operations are supported by advanced supervisory computer controls that optimize pellet quality and production, meeting the specific needs of steelmaking partners. The facility ships an average of over 200 boat cargoes, totaling around 8 million tons of pellets, during the shipping season, with transportation facilitated by Burlington Northern unit trains.

Environmental stewardship remains a core commitment for Hibbing Taconite, which emphasizes minimizing adverse impacts on air, water, and land throughout its mining and processing operations. The company has implemented comprehensive planning and control measures to ensure environmentally friendly practices across all facets of its operations.

With over 30 years of experience, Hibbing Taconite continues to play a vital role in supplying high-quality iron ore pellets to steelmakers across the nation, reinforcing its dedication to both product excellence and environmental responsibility.