The Utilization of Indigenous Coal as Energy Substitute in Cement Industry
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Date
2004-08
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Ethiopia spends million of dollars to meet its energy requirement, it is estimated
around 20-30 million dollars is spent for the purchase of furnace oil for cement
sectors only. In order to change the country’s economic situation and to come-out of
poverty it is necessary to develop and utilize the country’s energy potential.
For the reason of fuel economy cement plants all over the world are switching over
from fuel oil or gas to coal for their kiln operation. Ethiopia has discovered large
potential low grade coals at different areas. The development and the utilization of
this indigenous coal as an energy source for all energy consuming sectors will be a
major issue in this country in near future.
The study aims to determine the potential use of one of the indigenous coal as a
substitute in place of furnace oil in cement industry.
Results from the analysis and comparisons of Yayu coal quality revealed the
possibility of using Indigenous coal in place of furnace oil up to a certain percent.
Based on the results the study attempts to select the equipments required if Yayu coal
is replaced in place of fuel oil in Mugher Cement Enterprise.
Substantial investment for additional facilities and equipments are required, and as a
consequent considerable saving in production cost in addition to the reduction of
foreign currency can be achieved through the switch over to indigenous coal.
Additionally the study revealed air pollution, spontaneous coal fires and coal dust
explosion are the major concerns of cement plant if this indigenous coal is used in
place of furnace oil.
In view of this the study recommended cement plants to see this alternative source of
energy and to identify their concerns as soon as possible.
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Process Engineering