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U.S. Department of Energy
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Technology and use of low-rank coals in the U. S. A. [Particularly power generation usage]

Conference ·
OSTI ID:7125797

The use of low-rank coals for power production and some of the related problems are discussed. Ash fouling of boiler tubes is the most serious operating problem. Research and commercial experience has shown fouling to be directly related to sodium and ash contents of the coals. Many of the US low-rank coals are relatively high in Na and require very conservative boiler designs. Boiler and fuel specifications are given for three recent plants of the 400 to 550 MW range designed to burn high-fouling lignites. Furnace heat release rates for two of the boilers which are pc-fired are about 7,500 Btu/ft/sup 3/-hr and one of the units will have 252 soot blowers installed. Particulate emissions from boilers fired by low-rank coals are being controlled by electrostatic precipitators and wet scrubbers; design data for typical units are presented. High moisture and high Na contents act to improve precipitator performance on N. Dak. lignites. Though relatively low in S, most US low-rank coals will require some SO/sub 2/ removal to meet emission standards. Research data and design specifications for wet scrubbers utilizing the natural akali in the fly ash are summarized. Trace element balances on three powerplants in the 250 to 350 MW range burning low-rank coals showed significant enrichment in some of the elements in the flue gas.

Research Organization:
Energy Research and Development Administration, Grand Forks, ND (USA). Grand Forks Energy Research Center
OSTI ID:
7125797
Report Number(s):
CONF-760495-1
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English