Flotation of low-rank coal slimes

Abstract

During coal production, a significant amount of fine coal dust is generated. Utilizing these high-ash coals is of great importance for the national economy. This study aims to recover the slime of the coal washing plant located in the Kütahya-Tuncbilek region by flotation. The experimental parameters studied include the collector dosage, dispersant dosage, frother dosage, flotation time, air flow rate, and solid ratio. Flotation performance was evaluated by determining the ash, calorific value, sulfur, volatile matter, fixed carbon, and combustible recovery values of the products obtained at the end of the experiment. As a result of the experimental studies, the highest combustible matter recovery value was obtained using 2000 g/t sodium silicate, 2000 g/t diesel oil, and 100 g/t MIBC with a solid ratio of 10%, a flotation time of 4 minutes, and an air flow rate of 4 L/min. Thus, marketable coal was produced with 6312 kcal/kg calorific value, 0.95% sulfur, and 22.4% ash content.