OPTIMIZATION OF NITROGEN TO DRY COAL BUNKERS

Abstract: Coal bunkers are widely used in thermal power plants for storing pulverized coal before combustion. Moisture present inside coal bunkers affects combustion efficiency, causes coal sticking, corrosion, and increases the risk of spontaneous combustion. Conventional drying methods consume high energy and are often inefficient for maintaining safe moisture levels.

This paper proposes the optimization of nitrogen gas for drying coal bunkers to improve coal handling efficiency, reduce moisture content, and enhance operational safety. Nitrogen is used as an inert drying medium because of its non-reactive nature and ability to minimize oxygen concentration inside bunkers. The proposed system utilizes controlled nitrogen flow, humidity monitoring sensors, pressure regulators, and automated control systems to achieve efficient drying with minimum nitrogen consumption.

The study focuses on improving drying efficiency, reducing coal degradation, preventing fire hazards, and minimizing operational costs. Experimental analysis shows that optimized nitrogen circulation significantly reduces bunker moisture while maintaining safe environmental conditions. The proposed method is suitable for modern thermal power plants requiring safe and efficient coal storage systems.

Keywords: Coal Bunker, Nitrogen Drying, Thermal Power Plant, Moisture Reduction, Inert Gas System, Coal Storage Safety, Optimization.