Coal Handling Equipment

MIL-HDBK-1003/6

1.

Railroad Car Thawing Equipment. When high moisture coal

is shipped in freezing temperatures, unloading the cars becomes a major

problem. The need for special equipment to unload frozen coal will depend on

the location and size of the plant. In a plant where below-freezing

temperatures are infrequent, manual operation to break the coal out of the

cars will be sufficient. In regions where frozen coal is a regular

occurrence, thawing sheds or pits are often necessary. Top mounted car

shakers which transmit a vibratory action to the railroad car can be used with

the thawing units or used independently in milder climates.

2.

Railroad Car Pullers. Car pullers are usually of either a

capstan type or drum type. A capstan type puller is satisfactory for handling

rail cars on level grade provided the pulling capacity is not exceeded. For

higher pulling capabilities and locations where rails are not on level grade,

the drum type puller should be used. In some cases a driven rail spotter

vehicle is justified in lieu of the above. In making a choice, consider

weight to be pulled, grade, radius of curvature (should be straight), track

condition and operating temperature.

3.

Railroad Car Scales. Railroad scales are optional for

large plants if their use can be justified.

4.

Unloading Hoppers. A double hopper arrangement,

approximately 14 ft (4.27 m) wide and 28 ft (8.53 m) long should normally be

provided. Bar grating protects against personnel and vehicles falling into

the hopper. Hopper slope should be at least 60 degrees from horizontal. All

hoppers, chutes and surfaces on which coal flows should be stainless steel for

long life and good coal flow.

c) Truck Delivery. Transportation by truck is the most economical

over short distances. The effective range is approximately 150 miles (242

km). Although it is the most flexible mode of transportation, it can also be

highly dependent on the weather. Unloading equipment for truck delivery is

similar to that required for rail delivery but is much less extensive. Truck

scales are optional subject to economics and use justification. Truck hoppers

are a minimum of 10 ft (3.05 m) by 10 ft (3.05 m) with steel grating and

hinged or removable covers.

Coal Handling Equipment. Extensive equipment is required to

5.4.1.2

transport coal from unloading hoppers to the furnace or storage area. Typical

handling systems could include a combination of various elevators, crushers,

and conveyors.

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