Traceability in iron ore processing and transports

The ability to track and trace products in a production process and in the transportation chain from supplier to customers is important for quality control and process improvements. However, good traceability is often difficult achieve for continuous process products as well as for batch produced products where batches intermix. In this paper, guidelines for improving traceability and setting up a traceability system in the iron ore production process are presented based on two case studies. One case is using process data in a simulation approach for a pellets plant and the other is using RFID methodology to trace pellets in the distribution chain. Results show that simulations can aid short-term traceability, whereas long term traceability is possible through marking pellets with RFID transponders, where the applications are suitable.

► We describe the need for and ways to improve traceability in minerals processing industries.
► Results from two case studies of the iron ore production process are presented.
► The first case uses simulation to track and trace products and RFID technology is used in the other.
► Simulations may be used for many processes where flow and volumes are known.
► RFID methods are promising but the technique is sensitive to the intended environment.