Wuxi Yacai Precision Machinery Co., Ltd , https://www.yacaijm.com
Xiamen Jiashen Energy Technology Co., Ltd. has developed a groundbreaking technology to convert low-quality pulverized coal from Fujian into spherical, hollow-shaped briquettes. After four successful industrial field trials, the product demonstrated remarkable clean and energy-efficient combustion performance. This cavity briquette technology, along with its associated molding process and equipment, is a first-of-its-kind innovation that fills a critical gap in industrial briquette technology both domestically and internationally. If widely adopted, it could significantly contribute to the sustainable, clean, and safe development of China’s coal resources.
The key advantage of cavity briquettes is their ability to fully replace lump coal, offering a high-value industrial coal product. The innovation lies in using low-cost, low-quality pulverized coal as raw material, which is then processed under high temperature and pressure to create a novel structure with superior combustion properties. Unlike traditional solid-core or lump coal, which often leave unburned residue and cinder cores, cavity briquettes ensure complete combustion, reducing waste and improving efficiency.
Traditional coal types typically achieve thermal efficiency between 80% and 85%, but this is often insufficient, leading to environmental pollution. Some attempts have been made to add explosive elements to pulverized coal to enhance combustion, but these methods are complex and difficult to control. Xiamen Jiashen overcame these challenges by developing an optimal ventilation ratio system, achieving significant breakthroughs in the physical and chemical properties of cavity coal.
Several industrial applications were conducted, including:
- In August 2002, Suzhou Iron and Steel Plant used 0.3 tons of cavity briquettes in a gas furnace.
- From August 20 to 29, 2005, Jiangsu Nantian Group Fertilizer Company tested 300 tons of cavity briquettes for fertilizer production.
- On November 7, 2006, Xiamen Huadaxin Industry and Trade replaced coke with 30 tons of cavity briquettes.
- On December 28, 2006, Daejeon Shenghe Casting and Metallurgy used 30 tons of cavity briquettes instead of high-quality lump coal.
Results showed that cavity coal achieved over 98% thermal efficiency and saved more than 18% in coal usage. Emissions of sulfur dioxide and soot were reduced by 41% and 40%, respectively. Additionally, cavity briquettes produced from low-quality Fujian coal matched the gas quality of high-quality lump coal, offering a viable alternative in chemical production.
The economic benefits are substantial. Using 6 million tons of inferior coal annually could save 900,000 tons of coal, generating 540 million yuan in annual savings. Environmentally, it reduces dust and sulfur dioxide emissions by over 40%, providing significant ecological advantages.
Given China's reliance on coal for energy, converting it into secondary energy through gasification is essential to reduce pollution and improve efficiency. Cavity briquettes are ideal for fixed-bed gasifiers, overcoming issues related to coal particle size and stability. With independent intellectual property rights and no similar products in the market, cavity briquettes align with China’s long-term energy strategy.
With increasing coal output and limited lump coal supply, cavity briquettes offer a solution by utilizing previously wasted pulverized coal. They can be used in various industries, from boilers to gas production, alleviating the coal shortage and promoting sustainable development.
As a long-term investment project, cavity briquette technology should be promoted gradually, starting with pilot programs in coastal coal transfer ports. These areas are key for coal distribution and can benefit greatly from this innovation. By recovering lost coal during transportation, the technology helps recycle resources, reduce waste, and meet growing demand.
In summary, cavity briquettes represent a major technological advancement with wide-ranging economic and environmental benefits. Their potential to transform the coal industry makes them a crucial step toward a resource-efficient and eco-friendly future.