In this note, we are going to learn about Different Types of Solid Fuels and Their Uses. Welcome to Poly Notes Hub, a leading destination for engineering notes for diploma and degree engineering students.
Author Name: Arun Paul.
Different Types of Solid Fuels and Their Uses
Here we have listed different types of solid fuels and their percentage composition, calorific value, and uses –
A. Wood:
Percentage composition of the constituents of wood is:
- C = 50%, H = 6%, O = 43%, N = 1%, and moisture = 70 – 90%
- Calorific value is 4000 – 4500 Kcal/kg
It is generally used as a fuel for domestic purposes.
B. Coal:
It is obtained in nature by the conversion or decomposition of plant or wood under great pressure of the earth. Coal is classified as:
i. Peat:
It is the first stage of conversion of wood. This state is called peat. The percentage composition of the constituents of peat are:
- C = 58%, O = 35%, H = 5%, N = 1.5%, S = 0.5%, and moisture = 80 – 90%.
- The Calorific value of peat is 5,400 Kcal/kg.
It is used as fuel for domestic purposes as well as for the production of electricity.
ii. Lignite:
It is the second stage of conversion of wood, known as lignite. The percentage composition of the constituents of lignite is:
- C = 67%, H = 5%, O = 25%, N = 1.5%, S = 1.5%, and moisture = 30 – 60%.
- The Calorific value of lignite is 6,000 Kcal/kg.
It is used as fuel in domestic work and in boilers for the liberation of steam.
iii. Bituminous:
Bituminous is the third stage of conversion of wood. It burns with a long yellow flame. The percentage composition of the constituents is:
- C = 83%, O = 10%, H = 5%, N = 2%, and moisture = 10 – 20%.
- The Calorific value of bituminous is 8,000 Kcal/kg.
It is used to generate steam in boilers, manufacture coal gas, and as a reducing agent.
iv. Anthracite:
The last stage of conversion of wood is known as anthracite. It is hard and brittle. The percentage composition of the constituents of anthracite is:
- C = 93%, H = 3%, O = 3%, N = 1%, and moisture = 2 – 4%.
Its calorific value is 8000 – 8500 Kcal/kg.
It is used as fuel for the generation of steam in boilers and in metal extraction.
Solid fuels play a vital part in addressing energy demands and supporting a range of industrial applications. From wood to anthracite, each stage of transformation has distinct properties and calorific values, making it appropriate for various applications. Solid fuels and their use are critical to both home and industrial energy requirements. Wood, peat, lignite, bituminous coal, and anthracite show the diversity of solid fuels and their uses, which range from power generation to steam production and metal extraction.
Understanding the composition and calorific value of solid fuels is critical for efficient consumption. Solid fuels and their uses not only help to drive economic development, but they also serve as the foundation for both conventional and modern energy systems. The study of coal improves the efficient use of these fuels, making them vital in a variety of areas. Solid fuels and their uses will remain essential as worldwide seeks long-term and reliable energy options.