Numerical Study of Anthracite Blended with Petroleum Coke on Swirl-JET Burner in Cement Kiln

Abstract

This research focuses on studying and improving the combustion of anthracite coal blended with Petroleum coke in a ratio of 89:11 by mass. The numerical study was conducted using Ansys Fluent. In cement kiln operations, the  Swirl-JET burner has been observed to cause melting of cement at the burner outlet, leading to clogging after a few months of operation. To validate the numerical model with real operating conditions of the cement kiln burner, the study analysed char particle combustion, combustion characteristics, kiln surface temperature, air velocity distributions, and temperature distribution. Additionally, the research examined the effect of varying the swirl angle of the swirl air outlet (40°, 25° and 14°). The results showed that decreasing the swirl angle reduced coal scattering at the burner outlet and shifted combustion further from the burner outlet. Furthermore, blending Anthracite coal with Petroleum coke in a ratio of 89:11 by mass, due to the smaller particle size and higher lower heating value, improved combustion characteristics. This blend prevented recirculation flow near the burner outlet and enhanced flame temperature along the cement kiln. In conclusion, decreasing the swirl angle and blending Anthracite coal with Petroleum coke are effective strategies to reduce burner clogging and improve flame temperature in cement kiln operations.