METALLURGICAL COKE

Metallurgical Coke (also known as met coke or metallurgical coke) is a type of fuel derived from coal, primarily used in metallurgy—especially in the production of steel, pig iron in blast furnaces.

1. Production Process of Metallurgical Coke

Metallurgical coke is produced by heating bituminous coal (a type of coal with high carbon content) in the absence of oxygen at temperatures around 1000–1100°C in special ovens called coke ovens.
This process is known as carbonization, during which:

• Volatile substances (gases, tar, moisture, etc.) are removed,
• The remaining solid product, with a very high carbon content (~83–90%), is called coke.

2. Main Components of Metallurgical Coke

• Fixed Carbon: ~83–90%
• Ash Content: 8–12%
• Sulfur: <1.00%
• Volatile Matter: <2.00%
• Particle Size: 0–5mm, 5–25mm, 25–85mm
• Moisture: Low (removed during processing)
• High Mechanical Strength: To withstand pressure and gravitational load inside blast furnaces.

3. Main Applications

3.1. Steel and Pig Iron Production in Blast Furnaces

• Acts as the primary fuel to provide heat.
• Serves as a reducing agent, converting iron ores (Fe₂O₃, Fe₃O₄) into metallic iron.
• Helps create a porous structure inside the furnace, allowing for effective gas flow.

3.2. Production of Ferroalloys and Stainless Steel

Used in special processes that require high temperatures and strong reducing environments.

3.3. Fuel

Metallurgical coke can also be used as a high-quality, smokeless fuel in various industries, including metallurgy and chemicals.

3.4. Reducing Agent

In metallurgical processes, coke acts as a reducing agent, helping to remove oxygen from metal ores to produce pure metals.

3.5. Other Applications

Coke is also used in the production of cast iron, ferrous alloys, and in certain chemical and electrolytic processes.