Procedure for Estimating Natural and Technological Components in Ash Content of Produced Coal

Abstract

Based on the differentiation of coal ash content into constituents, the procedure is developed for estimating overall (technological and natural) dilution. The accumulated data base on the Elgin coal deposit (South Yakutia) is described. This data base was used to model coal seams for studying variability of their parameters and properties. The estimated ash contents due to mining operations and connected with the discriminated natural groups of mineral admixtures are presented. Higher variability of the overall ash content and its components across the area and in section of coal seams is shown. The percentage of various thickness steaks inside coal seams in the structure of ash content may reach 14–27% and more. Coal mines insufficiently account for this fact, which leads to incomplete utilization of geological potential of complex-structure deposits. It is emphasized that the resource-saving ash content control should not only be focused on processing efficiency. Based on additional appraisal of mineral reserves, it is possible to gain new capabilities of control at the stages of mine planning and design, actual mining and coal pretreatment.