Metal ores

cpc code 14 covers the industry of metal ores, which is a crucial sector within the broader economy. This industry is responsible for extracting and processing a wide range of metallic minerals, including iron, copper, gold, silver, and various other valuable resources. The metal ores industry plays a vital role in supplying the raw materials necessary for the manufacturing of a diverse range of products, from construction materials to high-tech electronics, making it an integral part of the global supply chain.

The production of metal ores typically involves a multi-step process. First, the ore is extracted from the earth through mining operations, which can include open-pit, underground, or placer mining techniques. The extracted ore is then transported to processing facilities, where it undergoes a series of physical and chemical processes to separate the desired metal from the surrounding rock and impurities. These processes may include crushing, grinding, flotation, smelting, and refining, depending on the specific type of ore and the target metal.

The metal ores industry requires a range of inputs to support its production activities. Key inputs include heavy machinery and equipment for mining and processing, such as excavators, crushers, and smelters. Additionally, the industry relies on a skilled workforce, including geologists, mining engineers, and technicians, to operate the equipment and manage the production processes. 24 Machinery and equipment and 23 Construction are two other industry codes that may provide some of the necessary inputs for the metal ores industry.

The primary outputs of the metal ores industry are the various metallic minerals that are extracted and processed, such as iron ore, copper, gold, silver, and other base and precious metals. These outputs are then consumed by a wide range of downstream industries, including 25 Manufacture of fabricated metal products, except machinery and equipment, 26 Manufacture of computer, electronic and optical products, and 27 Manufacture of electrical equipment, which use these raw materials to manufacture a diverse array of products.