Why Measure Coke Moisture?

Coke processing requires varying conditions to properly attain the desired outcome. In the drying stage of the process, coke ovens can account for almost 10% of the energy consumption in a plant; proper moisture measurement and control of the material prior to being utilized for energy can majorly decrease the energy usage and increase the efficiency of the production line. Mainly used for fuel and energy, coke is a solid carbon source used to melt and reduce iron ore. The process of obtaining by-products from coke include oven processing to remove ammonia, light oils, tar, sulfur and phenol before it can be used as a heating source for the ovens.

Coke, a crucial raw material in blast furnace steel production, is derived from coking coal through a high-temperature process ranging from 1,000 to 1,200 °C in an oxygen-free environment. This process results in the release of volatiles and impurities as the coal transforms into porous coke lumps. The carbon content of coke significantly impacts blast furnace operation and molten metal quality. Higher metal quality requires less coke and flux, leading to increased productivity and reduced production costs.

However, operating blast furnaces for coking processes can be costly for manufacturing facilities. Without an online moisture gauge, companies may unknowingly run their furnaces at higher temperatures to compensate for moisture variations, resulting in increased operating expenses. The coking process is a continuous batch operation lasting at least 16 hours. Coal is fed from bunkers and sometimes a mixing/grinding plant into a charging car, which automatically fills the oven chambers in the coking oven. During heating, volatiles are extracted through the Riser. Once heated, the coke is moved to a quenching car and tower where water is sprayed to cool it down. The coke is then dumped onto the coke wharf to cool further before being transported to the blast furnace via conveyor belts and a screening station.

Wet Clenching Method

The most popular method for coke is the wet quenching method wich assumes spraying water over burning coke in the quenching tower of the process. Once cooled the coke is then screened and prepped for its final process/product. Due to the extreme conditions that can occur when processing coke, MoistTech reccommends the CCS-3000 moisture sensor for optimum results.

The CCS3000 takes accurate measurements of moisture (in % dry and % wet) allowing you to regulate moisture levels either automatically or manually. It also takes measurements of temperature, and other levels vital to coke and coal production.