Upgrading of coal fines with a Centrifugal Concentrator

This study explored the effectiveness of centrifugal concentrators—Knelson KC-MD3, Falcon L40, SB-4A, and Knelson CVD6—in upgrading fine coal by reducing ash and sulfur content to enhance calorific value. Laboratory and pilot-scale tests on coal samples from Tweefontein and Khwezela collieries showed that all concentrators significantly reduced ash content, with desliming proving crucial for performance. The KC-MD3 achieved the best results, lowering ash from 35.2% to 18.47% and sulfur from 0.68% to 0.36%, while increasing calorific value. Pilot tests on the Knelson CVD6 demonstrated its versatility, though optimization challenges remained. The findings highlight the potential of centrifugal concentrators in coal upgrading and waste reclamation, emphasizing the need for further parameter optimization and scale-up for industrial feasibility.