Status of the HYGAS process development

IGT updated the status of pilot-plant developmental work on the conversion of coal to high-Btu, pipeline-quality gas using the HYGAS process. Progress in 1979 included successful operations with run-of-mine (ROM) coal from the Illinois No. 6 seam (Peabody No. 10 mine) and the integration into the pilot plant of a new 400-ton coal/char storage system. Compared with washed coal from the same mine, the less homogeneous ROM coal has a higher ash content but requires less pretreatment. The successful gasification of this ROM coal type is a first for US second-generation gasification technology. The 400-ton intermediate storage system ensures a continuous solids feed to the reactor in the event of any mechanical malfunction in upstream coal-handling or pretreatment facilities. The program is scheduled to continue operation with coals from western Kentucky to further extend the HYGAS process data base.