Coal liquefaction (Coal To Liquid) is a chemical process that transforms solid particles of coal into gaseous or liquid hydrocarbons. In addition to the Fischer-Tropsch process, the Bergius-Pier process is a means to achieve this - it converts carbon particles with the addition of hydrogen at a process pressure of 150 to 700 bar.
Due to high energy prices, the Bergius-Pier process represents an economic alternative to extracted oil and natural gas. The finely ground coal can be converted using special high-pressure plunger pumps. At high pressure, hydrogen at a temperature of about 500 degrees Celsius reacts with the coal mash. High pressure pumps deliver the mash to the plant's liquefaction reactor. As the mixture is extremely abrasive, special pumps are required to meet the demands of coal liquefaction.
High-pressure solutions in coal liquefaction are exposed to high process temperatures. These temperatures require a special seal design due to thermal expansion. Since the carbon particles can be up to three millimeters in size, a special valve design is required, which minimizes wear. The design requirements of the pumps limit their maximum speed, necessitating particularly large machines.
The solids content in the carrier oil is up to 50 percent. The solids must not come into contact with the packing rings of the pump as they will cause extreme wear. URACA has developed a patented demixing chamber specifically for this purpose.
Coal liquefaction produces gases containing methane, butane or propane and liquid fuels. These can be processed in other petrochemical processes. The liquefied coal products can be used for the same applications as the products derived from oil or natural gas. Final refining products include gasoline and other fuels, plastics and many other chemical products.
For coal liquefaction, URACA offers special solutions that perfectly meet the high demands of this process.
Coal liquefaction is an interesting alternative to oil and natural gas. The high temperatures and the high pressure of the process require special pump solutions for the promotion of the coal-oil-solid mixture.
URACA is the ideal partner for this and delivers sophisticated and high-quality technology for this process. Do you have questions about coal liquefaction? Contact the URACA experts now. We are happy to advise you in detail.
