Comparison of Preparation Plant Design Practices for Metallurcial and Steam Coal Applications

摘要

Coal preparation plants incorporate a wide array of solid-solid and solid-liquid separation equipment. The types of processes employed and configuration of these unit operations varies considerably from plant to plant and across different geographic regions. This paper examines the site specific factors that influence plant design protocols and operating practices. The findings of this study suggest that regional philosophies as well as technological considerations play a key role in the development of customized processing facilities for different coal types and markets. Based on these insights, generic guidelines have been developed for the design and operation of plants supplying coals to both the steam (utility) and metallurgical (coking) markets. The most notable differences in the design requirements involve the layout of the fine coal circuitry incorporating competitive flotation technologies and alternative dewatering systems. A case study is presented to illustrate the impact that design decisions may have on plant profitability.