Coal

TOMRA Sorting Solutions developed an exciting new dry separation technique for coal beneficiation. The new X-Ray Transmission (XRT) sorters have been successfully implemented as a means of de-shaling coal.

XRT imaging is a sensor technique employed to conduct particle-by-particle sorting. The system makes use of a x-ray line scan sensor, which generates images of the transmitted x-rays. This imaging is similar to that utilized for luggage scanners at airports. The x-ray system allows for rapid approximation of atomic number range, which is utilised in combination with the high resolution image to evaluate the mineral content and properties. The image generated provides information on the internal structure, shape and volume. As opposed to surface layer detection such as optical sorters, XRT allows this technique to be insensitive to surface coatings and dust.