The role of fine coal classification on fine coal cleaning circuit performance

Abstract

Size classification and coal-ash separation are interdependent unit operations in fine coal cleaning circuits. An improvement in size classification performance could potentially increase the overall fine clean coal quality and quantity recovered from the fine coal cleaning circuit. It is quite surprising to note that few articles have been published that discuss the role of fine coal classification technologies on fine coal cleaning circuit performance. This paper reviews the existing fine coal classification technologies, including classifying cyclone, sieve bend, and Stack Sizer™, and simulates their performance in fine coal cleaning circuits using USimPac mineral processing software. Detailed ash cleaning performance achieved by different fine coal cleaning circuits is discussed and compared. It is concluded that fine coal cleaning performance can be significantly improved by more efficient size classification technology.