An improvement in a method for the batchwise gaseous reduction of iron ore to sponge iron in a multiple unit reactor system including a cooling reactor and a series of reduction reactors. Reduction is effected with a gas composed largely of carbon monoxide and hydrogen generated by reforming a mixture of steam and natural gas or other gaseous hydrocarbons at an elevated temperature. The reducing gas pressure drop through the system is decreased by using an out-of-line cooling reactor and cooling gas loop, thereby making it feasible to use three or more reduction reactors in series and thus enhance the efficiency of utilization of the reducing gas.Also the use of an out-of-line cooling reactor permits independent control of both the gas flow rate and gas composition in the cooling loop.
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