Coal breakage characterisation - Part 1: Breakage testing with the JKFBC

The new method incorporates hardware for a fine particle breakage characterisation test, the JKFBC (JK Fine-particle Breakage Characteriser), a device modified from the standard HGI mill, which has a precision torquemeter installed to record energy utilisation during the experiments. Distinguished from the traditional HGI test, which is based on a single particle size with a single energy, the new characterisation test offers the flexibility to grind coal particles at various sizes, or various densities, or indeed (various components) with a range of energy levels. Energy consumption during the grinding was recorded. Using an Australian and a Chinese coal sample collected from power stations, this paper demonstrates the effects of particle size and density on coal breakage, and elucidates the deficiencies associated with the traditional HGI test.