Coal, Lignite, Coke and Anthracite Drying

In the UK nearly 40% of power generation is derived from coal-based power stations. There are various processes for the generation of power from coal, however the key question is how much energy is gained from the process, and how to maximise this amount of energy being released. This is generally termed Nett Calorific Value or Lower Heating Value, it is the heat energy available after reducing the loss due to moisture content. The drier the coal, the higher the calorific value and the lower the amount of coal required to generate a unit of Electricity.

The LamiFlo™ Coal Drying System offers a cost effective, energy efficient and clean drying process to reduce the moisture content of coal, lignite, coke, and anthracite, which in turn increases their nett calorific value, reducing the amount of coal requiring to be processed to generate the electricity, and cutting down on the emissions into the atmosphere.

Moist Coal, Lignite, Coke and Anthracite are by their very nature difficult to handle, using large conveyor systems. The unique LamiFlo^TM Drying System technology means that the coal can be pumped up to 500 metres, and when delivered the relevant moisture content has been reduced, therefore offering 2 processes in one action, thereby guaranteeing operating savings, and reduction of carbon footprint, and yet bespoke systems can be designed to still handle up to 500 tonnes per hour.

There are 3 main types of coal based fuels. 

Lignite coal 

Used almost exclusively for electric power generation lignite is a young type of coal. Lignite is brownish black, has a high moisture content (up to 45 %), and a high sulphur content. Lignite is more like soil than a rock and tends to disintegrate when exposed to the weather. Lignite is also called brown coal. Lignite has a calorific value of less than 5 kW/kg approximately. 

Bituminous coal 

Bituminous coal is a soft, dense, black coal. Bituminous coal often has bands of bright and dull material in it. Bituminous coal is the most common coal and has a moisture content less than 20 %. Bituminous coal is used for generating electricity, making coke, and space heating.
Bituminous coal has calorific values ranging from 6.8 - 9 kW/kg approximately. 

Anthracite coal 

Often referred to as hard coal, anthracite is hard, black and lustrous. Anthracite is low in sulphur and high in carbon. It is the highest rank of coal and has a  moisture content generally less than 15 %. Anthracite has a calorific values of around 9 kW/kg or above.  

What is the size of the LamiFlo™ Coal drying system? 

Each individual dryer is uniquely designed to suit your individual requirements, but generally the main components of the system are very compact, with the length of pipe work depending on the distance of pumping required.

How long from feeding the hopper before dry coal is being emitted? 

Depending on the input and target moisture content, but expect dry ambient coal to be emitted after 2 seconds, depending on the distance of travel.

What is the Maintenance Scheme of the LamiFlo™ Coal drying system? 

L F Pumping (Europe) Ltd takes full responsibility for the LamiFlo™ Coal drying system. The drying system will need annual inspections, but generally the drying system can be used 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 52 weeks a year, without interruption.

Can lower target moisture content be achieved? 

The LamiFlo™ Coal drying system can reduce materials down to practically dry materials, depending on the size & type of the material.