A two-part paper on problems encountered in a modern coal preparation plant and how they were dealt with Part 1: Low-gravity separation; Part 2: Dealing with abrasion-corrosion

CIM Bulletin, Vol. 73, No. 823, 1980

B.W. CLYBURN, Manager of Coal Preparation, Cape Breton Development Corporation, J.G. MARTIN, Director, Engineering Department Cape Breton Development Corporation

Coals from the Corporation's Lingan and No. 26 mines are classified as high-volatile A bituminous, with a very low inherent ash and containing all essential properties to provide metallurgical coal, with the exception of a high sulphur content. Only through proper cleaning at low specific gravity can thepyritic sulphur fraction of the coal be liberated to an extent where final sulphur meets coking standards.This first section of the paper deals with the operation of a Dutch S'ate Mines heavy-media cyclone circuit to achieve an actual separation in the region of 1.30 specific gravity. A discussion of the parameter of control which must be applied along with an appraisal of the results obtained is included in the paper.This second section of the paper deals with the corrosion and erosion of steel pipes, launders and vessels in a coal preparation plant, and the required selection and installation of resistant materials throughout. Approximately 5,700 feet of various-diameter pipe and 2,000 square feet of tile work were required. The paper describes the problem, the selection and installation of a solution, and gives details and costs.

Mots Clés: Separation, Gravity separation, Abrasion, Corrosion, Devco, Cyclones, Coal preparation, Harbour Seam, Lingan Colliery, Victoria Junction Plant, Pipe, Equipment.