Identification of the Optimal Operating Parameters of Locally Available Coal for Use in Pakistani Industries

A parametric study intended to determine optimum burning parameters of locally available coal from mines in Darra Adam Khel is being reported. The coal samples were tested in a cyclone combustor using the pulverized coal combustion technique. Effect of mesh size, primary and secondary air velocity at various air fuel ratios was investigated to quantify the combustion performance by measuring the furnace temperature. Mesh size 200 was found to be readily combustible within the operating ranges, while tight control of the operating parameters was required to combust coal at mesh size 150. Optimum ranges of primary air and Air-Fuel Ratio are suggested for effective combustion. The study will help in effective utilization of indigenous coal reserves of Pakistan.