Flux stone is a category of sedimentary rock in Dwarf Fortress that is crucial for steel production. It acts as a flux agent, removing impurities during the smelting process.
Types of Flux Stone
- Limestone: A common sedimentary rock, usually white or gray.
- Dolomite: Similar to limestone but contains magnesium.
- Marble: A metamorphic rock derived from limestone or dolomite, also usable as flux.
Importance in Steel Production
Steel requires iron ore, fuel (coke or charcoal), and flux stone. Without flux stone, you can only produce pig iron, which is not as strong as steel.
How to Use Flux Stone
- Mine flux stone.
- Ensure you have iron ore and fuel.
- Build a smelter.
- Queue a steel production job in the smelter, ensuring you have enough iron ore, fuel, and flux stone.
Finding Flux Stone
Sedimentary layers are your best bet. Examine the stone layers when embarking to ensure flux stone is present. Use the 'd'esignate, 'm'ine' command to extract the stone.
Alternatives
If flux stone is unavailable, consider magma smelters which don't require fuel. Additionally, some embark locations may have native steel.
