Statistical optimization study of jigging process on beneficiation of fine size high ash Indian non-coking coal

Abstract

Non-coking coal is used for metallurgical and cement industries apart from generating energy. Indian non-coking coals are high in ash content because of drift origin. These high ash coals require beneficiation before being used. Jigging is one of the unit operations used for beneficiation of coal. Beneficiation by jigging is carried out for the coarser size of particles. Jigging of fine size coal is limited. However, in present study two fine non-coking coal samples having sizes −3+2mm and −2+1mm were used for jigging study. In present study jigging experiments were performed using laboratory Denver mineral jig by varying feed size, water rate, and feed rate. 23 full factorial experimental design was used to study the performance of jigging operation. The performance of jigging was judged by statistical analysis; where ash content and combustible recovery of concentrate were considered to be responses. In addition to statistical analysis, optimization study was also carried out by Nelder–Mead multidimensional pattern search method. Statistical models developed in the present study could predict ash content and yield of the concentrate accurately. At optimized condition, it was possible to achieve 22.6% ash content with 64.15% combustible recovery.