Industrial coal technology
Industrial coal technology refers to the various specialized techniques used to process coal into a desirable form. The different forms of coal technology include the cutting and splitting of coal, the cleaning and preparation of a fuel or feedstock, the conversion of coal into gaseous fuel, and the production of valuable by-products.
In terms of cutting and splitting, coal is cut up into smaller pieces to make it easier for workers to load and unload the fuel. A variety of equipment is used to accomplish this task, from hand tools to specialized cutting machines. The coal is then split into chunks of various sizes, typically based on the desired application. For example, fine coal is used for burning in boilers, while coarser sizes are suitable for industrial processes like power generation.
Coal extraction and preparation can involve washing with water or chemical solutions to remove impurities before it is delivered for fuel or feedstock use. The cleaning process used can depend on the type of coal being processed. High-volatile bituminous and subbituminous grades of coal typically require extensive cleaning and preparation; anthracite coal is usually cleaner and requires less preparation.
Fuel gasification involves the conversion of coal into a gaseous form of energy. This process requires specialized equipment that is designed to produce a high-temperature mixture of hydrocarbons, oxygen, and nitrogen, which then react with the coal to produce combustible gases. These fuel gases are highly efficient, allowing end users to maximize their efficiency when burning the fuel.
Valuable by-products can also be generated through industrial coal processes. Through coal gasification, for example, valuable syngas can be generated, consisting primarily of carbon monoxide and hydrogen, which can then be used as a feedstock for other industrial processes. Tar and other by-products are also sometimes produced and can be further refined for commercial uses.
The advancements in industrial coal technology have made the fuel more accessible and efficient for a wide range of applications. The combination of cutting and splitting, cleaning and preparation, fuel gasification, and by-product production results in a product that is safer, cleaner, and more efficient. This technology is essential to the ongoing production of energy and a variety of other goods worldwide.
