Improved fuel efficiency with a direct-fired system

The successful experience with the installation of a TAS Systems micronizing coal mill at Ideal's Tijeras, New Mexico plant and Devil's Slide, Utah plant is described. The TAS system was developed on the understanding that micronized coal is more reactive than pulverized coal in combustion. Coal micronized to a -325 mesh fineness would have almost three times more surface area than coal pulverized to a -200 mesh fineness. The benefits of the finer ground coal are: more rapid combustion; increased heat liberation; more uniform particle-to-air/oxygen contact; and increased heat flux distribution. Ideal's program, aimed at fuel conservation and improved refractory life, is discussed.<>