QIT

The largest solid ilmenite deposit in the world

QIT- Fer et Titane exploits an ilmenite deposit at Lac Tio near Havre-Saint-Pierre, Québec, and operates a metallurgical complex in Sorel-Tracy, also in Québec, where high-quality titanium dioxide, pig iron and steel are extracted from this ore.  In business since 1950, the company that is recognised as a world leader in the production of titanium dioxide feed stock.

In operation since 1950, Lac Tio is an open-pit mine on the site of the largest solid ilmenite deposit in the world. The exceptional size and quality of the Lac Tio deposit means the operation has a life expectancy of at least fifty years. The mine employs around 300 people.

QIT's metallurgical complex at Sorel-Tracy employs around 1,300 people and is the only one of its kind in the world.  It is the site of several interconnected plants with varied but complementary types of production. The reduction plant is at the heart of the complex and has nine furnaces that feed the entire production line. The smelted ore is transformed into titanium dioxide and iron, or transported to the steel plant and the metal powder plant for further processing.

Titanium pigment serves as a colouring or opacity agent in paints, plastics, dyes, paper, rubber and other materials. It is by far the most commonly used white pigment in the world and is used to produce a low-cost, superior-quality white finish.

Québec Metal Powders (QMP), a company affiliated with QIT that operates within the metallurgical complex, produces specialised iron and metal powders.  These are used principally in the manufacture of parts for precision mechanics.  The largest demand comes from the automotive industry.