Coke fuel is a high-carbon product derived from coal, used primarily in the steelmaking process. It is created by heating coal in the absence of air, which drives off volatile compounds, leaving behind a solid carbon-rich material. Here are the key aspects of coke fuel:
1.Production Process (Coking)
– Coking: The process of making coke involves heating coal in a coking oven at temperatures as high as 2,000°F (1,100°C) without oxygen. This process, known as destructive distillation, removes volatile compounds (such as water, coal gas, coal tar, and other by-products), leaving behind almost pure carbon called “metallurgical coke”.
2. Applications
– Steelmaking: Coke is primarily used in blast furnaces for smelting iron ore into iron, which is then used to produce steel. It acts as both a fuel to reach the high temperatures required and a reducing agent that helps convert iron ore (Fe2O3) to pure iron.
– Fuel for Other Industrial Processes: Coke can also be used as a fuel in other high-temperature industrial processes, like foundries or in the production of calcium carbide.
3.Types of Coke
– Metallurgical Coke: Used in steel production due to its high carbon content and strength.
– Foundry Coke: Used in foundries to melt metals.
-Petroleum Coke: A byproduct of oil refining, petroleum coke is used in industrial processes and as a cheaper alternative to coal.
