Statistical Optimization of Dry Deshaling for Indian Coals Using Response Surface Methodology

Abstract

ABSTRACTDry deshaling is receiving renewed attention in the coal-mining industry. In this methodology, high-density rock is removed from run-of-mine (ROM) coal at the mine extraction point and prior to shipping. One of the popular technologies used globally, the density-based vibrating air-table, was tested on a pilot-scale at three different coal-processing facilities in India. In this article, statistical analysis of the resulting test data was conducted using response surface methodology (RSM). The study identified that out of the four major operating parameters (i.e., tilt, slope, fan speed, and table vibrations), vibration frequency and its combined effect with slope impact the deshaling performance the most. In addition, empirical equations formulated using regression analyses were used for simultaneous optimization of the significant parameters in order to achieve the highest performance for the separation of Indian coals. The optimal operating conditions were determined using a desirability function for the three coal types using the pilot-scale unit. The numerical solutions indicate that a high-deshaling performance for Indian coals can be achieved at operating conditions that include lower table vibration, higher slope, and lower fan speed.