Spatial distribution of coal quality parameters with respect to production requirements: an adaptive neuro-fuzzy application for the Can coal field (Turkey)

Abstract

Determination of spatial distribution of coal quality parameters can ease management of the operations in coal mines. In this study, in order to provide guidance for the excavations, Can coal mine production map showing regions having suitable coal parameters as feed coals for a power plant and also for public sale was prepared using adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system tool. Statistical relationships among calorific value, ash content and sulphur content were evaluated using the data obtained from boreholes opened in the mine between 2006 and 2009. According to the obtained production map, coals of Can mine are not suitable for public sale because of their high sulphur content and hence they should be blended with low sulphur coals to meet the requirements, before sale.

Keywords:

• coal quality
• production map
• air pollution
• ANFIS

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.