Despite the global shift towards renewable energy, coal remains a significant component of the world’s energy mix and industrial output. The coal industry continues to support economic stability and employment in many countries while adapting to modern challenges through innovation and cleaner technologies.
Key features of the modern coal industry
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Coal extraction
Two main extraction methods are used: underground mining, which involves shafts and tunnels beneath the surface, and open-pit mining, which relies on heavy equipment to remove overburden and access coal seams from the surface.
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Processing and preparation
Extracted coal undergoes processing to improve its quality and meet market requirements. This includes cleaning, size classification, and crushing.
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Energy generation
Coal remains a major source of electricity and thermal energy, particularly in coal-fired power plants.
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Industrial and chemical use
Coal plays a vital role in cement and steel production and serves as a feedstock in various chemical processes — notably in the manufacture of coke, an essential material in steel smelting.
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Environmental considerations
Concerns over carbon emissions and environmental impact have prompted a shift towards cleaner combustion technologies, carbon capture, and reduced emissions. Ongoing R&D is focused on reducing the carbon footprint of coal-based processes.
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Innovation and research
The sector continues to invest in more efficient, safer, and environmentally responsible coal utilisation and extraction methods.
While the coal industry faces mounting environmental pressures, it remains economically significant. The development and implementation of cleaner, more sustainable technologies is essential to its long-term viability.
Uses of gaseous and liquid nitrogen in the coal industry
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Inert storage and transport
Nitrogen is used to create an inert atmosphere during coal storage and transportation, helping prevent oxidation and spontaneous combustion. This ensures safe handling across the supply chain.
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Pneumatic conveying
Nitrogen is used in pneumatic transport systems to move coal and raw materials through pipelines. It generates the necessary pressure without relying on mechanical systems — improving both safety and process efficiency.
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Integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC)
Nitrogen is used to control the atmosphere within gasifiers, where coal is converted into synthesis gas (syngas) — a mixture used for power generation or chemical synthesis. A nitrogen-rich environment supports controlled reaction conditions and process stability.
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Corrosion protection
Nitrogen purging is applied inside coal silos and metal processing equipment to displace oxygen and moisture, thereby preventing corrosion and extending service life.
By reducing the risks of fire, explosion, and corrosion, nitrogen improves the safety, reliability, and efficiency of coal extraction, handling, and processing operations.
Oxygen applications in coal operations
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Combustion and oxidation
Oxygen improves combustion efficiency and promotes more complete coal burning. It reduces the production of harmful by-products, supporting cleaner energy generation.
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Flue gas treatment
Oxygen is introduced into flue gas cleaning systems to trigger controlled oxidation reactions that remove harmful pollutants, thus improving air quality and reducing atmospheric emissions.
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Coal gasification
In gasification, oxygen acts as the oxidant that enables conversion of coal into syngas — a mixture of CO, H₂, and other gases. This process allows syngas to be used for energy production or as a chemical feedstock. Controlled oxygen input enables precise adjustment of syngas composition and process optimisation.
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Compressed oxygen systems
High-pressure oxygen systems are used to power pneumatic tools and control valves in coal mining operations. These systems deliver dry, pure oxygen at stable pressure levels, supporting consistent performance and increased safety.
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Coal conditioning (humidification and cooling)
Oxygen is occasionally used for conditioning coal before combustion — reducing dust, improving handling safety, and enhancing burn efficiency. Cooling and moistening coal with oxygen can reduce flammability and improve combustion stability.
PSA gas generators in coal mining
On-site PSA-based nitrogen and oxygen generators offer significant benefits for coal operations:
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Improved mineral yield
Controlled use of technical gases enhances process efficiency and reduces waste.
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Reduced operating costs
Eliminates dependence on cylinder or liquid gas deliveries.
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Flexible deployment
Containerised systems are easy to install and relocate — ideal for use at new or remote mining sites.
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Operational reliability
Systems provide a stable gas supply under demanding conditions.
Containerised PSA gas generators — specifically designed for the coal industry — ensure safe, reliable, and efficient gas supply where it’s needed most.
Interested in tailored gas solutions for coal operations?
Contact ONH Systems for expert consultation:
We’ll help you select and implement the most effective system for your site.