Statistical modelling and optimization study for beneficiation of Indian high ash semi-coking coal using allflux separator

Coking coals are used for metallurgical purposes and the majority of it being used for iron and steel making. In India, there is a limited resource of prime coking coal, because of which these low-grade high ash semi-coking coals may be used for the coke making after beneficiation. The objective of the present investigation was to study the beneficiation of semi-coking coal using allflux separator that uses the principle of liquid-solid fluidization for separating the particles. The experiments were performed based on Box Behnken experimental design. The semi-coking coal in the size range of 1000 to 100 mu m with feed ash content of 33% was used for the study. Statistical analysis was performed to understand the significance of the effect of different operating parameters and their interaction effects on the performance of allflux separator. In addition to this statistical model was developed and the optimization study was carried out. It was found that course set point has a significant effect on both ash content and yield of the concentrate. (C) 2016 The Society of Powder Technology Japan. Published by Elsevier B.V. and The Society of Powder Technology Japan. All rights reserved.