Studies on the Possibility of Extending Coal Resources for Coke Production through the Application of Coal Predrying

Abstract

Bituminous coals with very good coking properties are basic components of the coal blends used for the production of the high-quality blast furnace coke. In industrial practice and on an international market, these coals are known as hard-type coals. Their appropriately high share in the coal blends ensures coke quality complying with the requirements of coke consumers. The deficit of hard coals on the market as well as their high price are the reasons that make the coke producers decrease their share in coal blends and replace them with coals of the semi-soft type, featured by worse coking properties but, at the same time, lower price and wider availability on the market. Unfortunately, such an action causes a decrease in the quality parameters of the coke, which is unacceptable for coke consumers as a result of the fact that their expectations are increasing. A solution for this situation could be the implementation of the coal predrying process, which involves a partial moisture removal from the blend ...