Coal Technology – Definition Check for Coking Bituminous Coal A bituminous coal with carbon content in the range of about 78% to 81% is generally classified as coking bituminous coal suitable for producing metallurgical coke. Evaluate the statement.

Introduction / Context:
Coking bituminous coal is the primary feedstock for metallurgical coke used in blast furnaces. Its classification depends on several quality metrics, among which fixed carbon percentage is a key indicator. The statement claims that 78–81% carbon content corresponds to coking bituminous coal. We assess this within typical industrial ranges and definitions used in fuel technology.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Bituminous rank with volatile matter and plasticity adequate for caking behavior.
• Carbon content discussed on a typical as-received or dry basis near standard lab conditions.
• Other quality parameters (ash, sulphur, moisture) assumed within acceptable metallurgical limits.

Concept / Approach:

Coking coals generally exhibit fixed carbon roughly from the upper 70s into the 80s percent range, along with appropriate volatile matter to soften, swell, and resolidify in the oven. A carbon range of 78–81% falls squarely within customary coking grades for many sources, provided detrimental impurities (e.g., sulphur) are controlled. Thus, the classification indicated is reasonable and widely used in educational and preliminary industrial contexts.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:

Standard fuel-technology texts list bituminous coking coals with fixed carbon near 80% and volatile matter in mid ranges; high-temperature carbonisation yields hard coke when other contaminants are within limits.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Rejecting the statement outright ignores accepted ranges. Tying coking strictly to zero sulphur or extremely low ash is unrealistic; although low impurities are desired, moderate levels do not negate coking properties if other parameters qualify.

Common Pitfalls:

Confusing “coking” (ability to form coherent coke) with rank alone; assuming carbon percentage alone guarantees metallurgical suitability without considering ash fusion and reactivity indices.

Final Answer:

Agree