Fine Coal Agglomeration in the South African Coal Industry

摘要

A review is given in this paper on some of the research work conducted in the South African Coal Industry on agglomeration of fine coal with the main emphasis on the work done as part of Coaltech Research Program as well as the work done at Sasol Technology. Based on the discussions, it is concluded that although coal dependent, binderless briquetting seems promising for the agglomeration of the froth flotation concentrate. Further demonstration work including thermal drying of fine coal prior to binderless briquetting is however still required. Involvement and buy-in from other thermal drying and briquetting equipment/ technology suppliers is highly recommended to ensure success and sustainability of the process. The fine coal pelletizing process developed by Sasol Technology is, although site specific, also promising and can be seen as an option for future agglomeration and utilization of fine coal within the Sasol Secunda complex. A less costly binder is required for the Kleinkopje developed Kkarbolite~R pan pelletizing process to be economic. In general, fine coal agglomeration can be done using various methods. However, the economics of the process, particularly the cost of binders, remains a major constraint.