Abstract
Using the PlasmaKinTherm software package, kinetic calculations were performed for the electrothermochemical preparation of a prospective steam Kazakhstan coal (bituminous coal with an ash content of 18.5%) for combustion, which underlies its plasma ignition. The optimal dust concentration in the air mixture, satisfying all criteria for stable coal ignition, is 0.6 kg/kg. Calculations of electrothermochemical preparation in the volume of a plasma–coal burner (PCB) showed that its operating parameters depend on the concentration of coal dust in the air mixture, which ensures its ignition. Calculations revealed the distribution of temperatures and velocities of gas and coal particles, as well as concentrations of the products of electrothermochemical preparation of fuel along the length of the PCB. With the optimal dust concentration in the air mixture, the gas velocity at the outlet of the plasma–coal torch reaches 53.5 m/s, the temperature is 1430 K, and the concentration of combustible components is 56%. To verify the program used, a comparison of calculations with experimental data for plasma ignition of a bituminous coal was performed.