For the calcination of limestone, which fuel is the best to use?
Thread Content
In the production of soda ash via the ammonia-alkali process, coke is commonly used as fuel for the limestone calcination step, although brown coal is also employed in some cases. Please share your opinions – which fuel is more suitable after all?
It depends on the origin of the raw materials; if coke is produced locally in large quantities, then coke is undoubtedly the better choice. After all, coke is more effective at maintaining stable operation of lime kilns compared to brown coal. Although coke may be a bit more expensive, its quality is consistent. Due to the place of origin, the intrinsic quality of white coal varies greatly. Moreover, today’s white coal often contains a lot of stones and coal dust, which must be screened out for use in boilers.
That being said, what if it’s to reduce procurement costs? What impact does long-term use of white coal have on production? When burning bituminous coal, the concentration of gases in the furnace is certainly lower than that with coke, and the CO content is also higher.
This is suitability – feeling that it’s right, and considering the factors involved. White coal is readily available, but its disadvantages are also obvious. High coke prices bring advantages in terms of kiln performance, parameters, and consumption. If your kiln operator is highly experienced, the batching system is highly automated and accurate in measurement, use white coal; otherwise, use coke. Personal opinion.
This is because operating a lime kiln still requires experience and responsibility, which is different from carbonization.
I keep using bituminous coal; bituminous coal mainly consists of coal gangue and crushed coal, though it also depends on the supplier – the crushed coal is sent to thermal power plants. The kiln gas temperature is above 39, and the carbon monoxide level is below 0.6. Sometimes, the peak temperature may be too high due to the problem with white coal, and nodules may form inside the kiln; however, these situations are rare.
Oh. Thank you. I’ve learned a little more again. :)