Development of Dry Beneficiation Flow Sheet for Fine Coking Coal

Abstract

Flow sheet development of dry beneficiation of coking coal fines of size −1.0 + 0.1 mm using controlled vibro fluidization is the aim of the present study. Process conditions affecting the separation features on air table were identified and detailed individual effects and interaction among the process factors have been quantified. Experimental data were subjected to statistical analysis, and an in-depth understanding of the process was accomplished through various statistical plots. Optimization exercise was also carried out to find the preferred operating regimes to achieve maximum mass yield for the targeted product. Using the in-depth knowledge obtained, flow sheet was developed for coking coal investigated using a multistage operation of the air table for reducing ash in feed sample with 34.5% ash to 15.5% ash. Products in each stage are subjected to sink and float tests to understand the separation efficiency of dry beneficiation on coking coal at each stage. Petrological studies were also carried out to find the enhancement of organic matter in the beneficiated product. From all the studies and interpretations, dry coal beneficiation on coking coal gave a satisfactory result which raised the expectations of commercially using dry beneficiation of coking coal in future as a concentration technique, thereby reducing the consumption of water.