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Volpedia/Games/Factorio/Resources/Iron ore
FACTORIO / RESOURCES

Iron ore

Mine deposits using burner or electric drills, then smelt iron ore into iron plates used in most early production chains.

Original Volpedia referenceReviewed 2026-10-27Quick reference · noindexBASE / CORE SYSTEM
Original Volpedia editorial diagram, not an in-game machine screenshotOriginal Volpedia illustration
OverviewResources17Machines17Logistics17Power12Trains11Circuits12Research14Weapons13Maps12Modes8Enemies11Blueprints10Space Age14Progression12Guides22Tips12Tools2
Practical advice: Keep a dedicated line for iron plates and expand mining before new science demand starves the factory.
How it worksPractical adviceMistakes to avoidRelated
01

How it works

Mine deposits using burner or electric drills, then smelt iron ore into iron plates used in most early production chains.

02

Practical advice

Keep a dedicated line for iron plates and expand mining before new science demand starves the factory.

03

Mistakes to avoid

Running a single furnace lane for science, belts and ammunition creates shortages everywhere.

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resourcesCoal

Use coal to fuel boilers, early furnaces and burner mining drills, and as an ingredient of certain production recipes.

resourcesCopper ore

Mine copper ore and smelt copper plates for electronic circuits, cables and many mid-game components.

resourcesCopper plates

Smelt copper ore and distribute copper plates to circuits and additional recipe chains.

resourcesCrude oil

Extract crude oil with pumpjacks and pipe the fluid into refineries to produce oil products.

resourcesHolmium

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resourcesIron plates

Smelting transforms mined ore into a widely used intermediate needed by gears, pipes and steel production.

resourcesJellynut

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Back to Resources
IN THIS GUIDEHow it worksPractical adviceMistakes to avoidRelated topics
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Volpedia is an independent fan reference, not affiliated with Wube Software. Factorio mechanics and recipes may change between versions, mods and base game versus Space Age. Content last reviewed October 27, 2026. Category illustrations are original Volpedia diagrams, not gameplay screenshots. Factorio trademarks belong to their owners. Research and provenance records are maintained internally.

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