DETERMINATION OF QUALITY COAL AT NGAKA COAL MINE

Case study of Ngaka coal mine

Student Name: PAUL MOSSES MANKO

Registration Number: T/UDOM/2018/11324

Department: Geology

Supervisor’s Name: PROF. JSR

Course code: AG 324

Course Name: final year project work

A Final year project Submitted in partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for

the Degree of Bachelor of Science in Applied Geology of the University of
Dodoma

University of Dodoma

August, 2021
 CERTIFICATION
The Undersigned certify that they have read and hereby recommended for
examination by the University of Dodoma a final year project entitled:
Determination of quality coal at ngaka coal mine partial fulfilment of the
requirement for the Degree of Bachelor in Applied Geology of The University of
Dodoma.

Prof. J. SEETHARAMAIAH

(Supervisor)

Date…………………… Signature……………….

i
 DECLARATION
I, PAUL MOSSES l declare that this final year project is my own original work and
that it has not been presented to any other University for similar or any other degree
award.

Signature…………………………………………………...

ii
 ACKNOWEDGEMENT
I would like to express my profound gratitude and indebtedness to Prof. JSR Mr
Mutasigwa, Pt Coordinator, Department of Geology , and Mr. Justine for his
guidance and valuable suggestions. This work would not have been possible without
his encouragement and constructive criticism.

I sincerely thank him for the time and patience he devoted for this work. I am also
thankful to all the faculty members for their valuable suggestions. I am immensely
thankful to Mr Benson Mabena, Mr.Ibrahimu Mavika, Technical Assistants; and
Mr.Olomo, Laboratory Attendant for their help in carrying out laboratory
experiments.

I would like to acknowledge the authors of different research paper referred in the
work, which were a valuable source for understanding the subject.

Lastly, I am thankful to all my friends who have encouraged and helped me in

accomplishing this project.

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 ABSTRACT
Ngaka coal fied is in the Ruhuhu karoo basin comprises two distinct coal basins,
which are Mbalawala field (Ngaka south) and Mbuyura field (Ngaka north),

The coal at Ngaka by rank are bituminus to sub-bitminous that are the late
Carboniferous to Mid Jurassic age. There four coal seam at Ngaka coal field these
are ( S100,S200,S300 and S400) ,due to current technology and equipment S300
and S400 are mineable the economical mineable are S300 while the S400 are mined
for blending purpose

The study aim to determine the quality coal at Ngaka coal mine, means that for each
pit to determine which coal seam has the highest quality.

The variation of coal quality within the mine pits dispute mining and the obtainable
of quality coal,led the company to mine low quality coal with a high cost,the root of
the diffence in quality of coal seam is unrevealed.

Methodology employed litho-logging of the pit which determine the thickness of the
lithology and coal seam, proximity analysis which determine coal quality parameter
such as calorific value and ash content. Sampling, sample preparation, microsoft
excel and strata 5software.

The study find that most of coal found at Ngaka are of high quality ,the north pit has
highest quality with calorific value of 6700kcal/kg.The variation of coal quality
with coal seam are due to existence of intercalated inorganic material which are
sandstone and mudstone

The intercalated inorganic material reduce coal seam thickness by split a seam into
small layers with thickness less than one meter hence mined with dilution material.
The quality of coal mainly are affected much by the intercalated layers of mudstone
and sandstone, since in each coal seam there these intercalated material which are
less than 50cm

Neverthless,with the current mining methods and the nature of coal deposit at Ngaka
it’s difficult to mine a pure coal without dilution. The Company should improve the
new mining method which will mine a coal with less dilution. Detailed exploration
methods are required to mine in the northern parts since there are quality coal.

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 ABBREVIATION
ROM- Run Of Mine

CCP- Coal Processing Plant.

SS- Sandstone

CO- Coal

ST- Silt Stone

LG- Lignite Coal

COSS- Coal-Sandstone

SO- Soil

CB- Carbonaceous-Mudstone

CV- Calorific Value

S100- Coal Seam One

S200- Coal Seam Two

S300- Coal Seam Three

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS
CERTIFICATION......................................................................................................... i
DECLARATION ......................................................................................................... ii
ACKNOWEDGEMENT ............................................................................................. iii
ABSTRACT ................................................................................................................ iv
ABBREVIATION ........................................................................................................ v
TABLE OF CONTENTS ............................................................................................ vi
LIST OF FIGURES................................................................................................... viii
LIST OF TABLES ...................................................................................................... ix
CHAPTER ONE .......................................................................................................... 1
1.0 Introduction ............................................................................................................ 1
1.1 Background of the project ...................................................................................... 1
1.2 Location and accessibility ...................................................................................... 2
1.3 Climate of the area ................................................................................................. 2
1.4 Physiography and drainage .................................................................................... 3
1.5 Geology of the study area ...................................................................................... 3
1.5.1 Regional geology ................................................................................................ 3
1.5.2 Local geology ...................................................................................................... 4
1.6 Objective ................................................................................................................ 5
1.6.1 Main objective ..................................................................................................... 5
1.6.2 Specific objectives .............................................................................................. 5
1.7 Significance of the study ........................................................................................ 5
1.8 Problem of the statement....................................................................................... 5
CHAPTER TWO ......................................................................................................... 7
2.0 Literature review .................................................................................................... 7
2.1 Formation of coal ................................................................................................... 7
2.2 Coal quality ............................................................................................................ 7
CHAPTER THREE .................................................................................................... 10
3.0 METHODOLOGY ............................................................................................... 10
3.1 Field studies ......................................................................................................... 10
3.1.1 Litho-Logging ................................................................................................... 10
3.2.2 Sampling ........................................................................................................... 10
3.2 Laboratory studies ................................................................................................ 11
3.2.1 Sample preparation............................................................................................ 11

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3.2.2 Proximity analysis ............................................................................................. 12
CHAPTER FOUR ...................................................................................................... 16
4.0 RESULT AND DISCUSSION ............................................................................ 16
4.1.1 Litho-logging..................................................................................................... 16
Proximate analysis results .......................................................................................... 18
4.2 Discussion ......................................................................................................... 22
CHAPTER FIVE ........................................................................................................ 23
5.0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION ................................................... 23
5.1 Conclusion............................................................................................................ 23
Recommendation........................................................................................................ 23
REFERENCE ............................................................................................................. 24
APPENDEX ............................................................................................................... 26

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 LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1: Location of Ngaka coal mine....................................................................... 2
Figure 2: Map showing sub-basin of Ruhuhu basins (Kreuser, Wopfner, & C.Z.
Kaaya, 1990) ................................................................................................................ 4
Figure 3: Instrument used during sample preparation (A) Raymond mill (B) Jaw
crusher (C) Drying shed (D) Rotary divider .............................................................. 11
Figure 4: Equipment used during proximity analysis (A) A&D moisture balance for
measuring the moisture content (B)Ash furnace (C) An oven used for inherent
moisture (D) A weigh balance for ash sample ........................................................... 14
Figure 5: Bomb calorimeter ...................................................................................... 15
Figure 6: shown profile of south pit and location where sample is collected. .......... 17
Figure 7: A graph of Calorific value against sample ID at south pit ........................ 19
Figure 8: A graph of ash versus Sample ID at south pit ............................................ 19
Figure 9: A graph of colorific value verses sample ID at North pit ........................... 20
Figure 10: A graph of Ash versus Sample ID at North pit........................................ 20
Figure 11: A graph of colorific value verses sample ID at Central pit .................... 21
Figure 12: A graph of Ash versus Sample ID at Central pit ..................................... 21

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 LIST OF TABLES
Table 1 :Grading of non-coking coal base on heating value of coal(SEERVI, 2015) ............. 8
Table 2 :Laboratory data for central pit ................................................................................. 26
Table 3:Laboratory data for north pit .................................................................................... 26
Table 4: Laboratory data for south pit .................................................................................. 26

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 CHAPTER ONE
1.0 Introduction
1.1 Background of the project
Coal is the world’s most abundant and widely distributed fossil fuel. It is a global
industry that makes a significant economic contribution to the global economy.
Commercially coal is mined in more than 50 countries and used in more than 70.
Annual world coal consumption is about 5,800 million tons, of which about 75% is
used for electricity production. This consumption is projected to nearly double by the
year 2030 to meet the challenge of sustainable development and a growing demand
for energy( Centre, 2011)

More than 58% of the world‟s recoverable reserves are located in the following
country the United States (27%), China (13%), India (10%) and Australia (8.7%). By
rank, anthracite and bituminous coal account for 53% of the estimated recoverable
coal reserves sub-bituminous coal accounts for 30%, and lignite accounts for 17%.

The major producers of hard coal are China, USA, India, Australia, Indonesia, South
Africa, Russia, Kazakhstan, Poland and Colombia. The top coal exporters are
Australia, Indonesia, Russia, Colombia, South Africa, USA and Canada while the top
coal importers are Japan, China, South Korea, India, Chinese Taipei, Germany and
the UK(Vamvuka & Galetakis, 2015).

Africa continent has several coalfield and its coal is known as Gondwana coal which
has high ash and volatile matter.(Strambo et al., 2019). In Africa coal is
Mozambique, Namibia, Egypt, Cameroon, Ethiopia, Zambia, south Africa and
Swaziland.(Burton et al., 2018).South Africa has the largest reserve of coal it account
for 70% of total coal reserve in Africa (Falcont & Ham, 2009)and the coal is in basin
called Karoo basin, age of coal in Africa is Permian age.

In Tanzania coal reserve is located along Songea Karoo belt in southern part .coal
field found in Rukwa, Mbeya Ruvuma and Njombe.(Mwakaje, 2017).The large coal
deposits have been discovered in Ketawaka-Mchuchuma in the Ruhuhu Basin. It is
estimated that Mchuchuma coal deposits have more than 480 million tonnes of coal
reserve(Yager, 2019)

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1.2 Location and accessibility
Ngaka Coal mine is found in Ruvuma region, Mbinga district, Ruanda ward and
Ntunduwalo village. Neighbor villages surrounding mine are Ruanda, Liyombo,
Ndongosi and Litumba Kuhamba.The mine is located south west of Lake Nyasa, 115
km from Songea town and 58km from Kitai junction the area is accessible by road.

Figure 1: Show the location of Ngaka coal mine

1.3 Climate of the area

Songea has dry periods in May, June, July, August and September. Nevertheless,
during the month of April, May, June, July and August are likely to experience good
weather with pleasant average temperatures that fall between 20°C (68°F) and 25°C
(77°F).On average, the warm month(s) are October and November.November the
warmest month is with an average maximum temperature of 29°C (84°F).

The coldest month is July with an average maximum temperature of 22°C (71°F)
while August is the driest month. December is the wet month. This month experience
highest rainfall. Rainy season falls in the month of January, February, March and
November. The average rainfall is between 800mm and 1800mm. The quantity of

2
rainfall varies from one place to another leading to highest annual average of
1225mm. while the lowest per annually is 900mm.The mean humidity of Ruvuma is
high during the morning hours. March is the most humid. October is the least humid
month. The average annual percentage of humidity is 68.0%.

1.4 Physiography and drainage

The Ruhuhu Coalfields occur in Karoo sediments in known as termed the Ruhuhu
depression of South-west Tanzania, close to the eastern shore of Lake Nyasa; in
general terms, the coalfields occur in the drainage basin of the lower part of the
Ruhuhu River, which flows into the east side of Lake Nyasa a little south of the lake-
port of Manda and only slightly less than 80 miles south-south-east of the northern
end of the lake(Office and Government, 2012).

The sedimentary terrain within the Ruhuhu depression in general shows a moderate
relief, but the characteristic drainage pattern has given rise to rather close and at
places deep dissection. This narrow Ruhuhu depression, on an average about 20
miles wide, a topographically well-defined, relatively low-lying area which extends
from Lake Nyasa at Manda in a north-easterly or east-north-easterly direction for
about 100 miles to the neighborhood of the Songea-Njombe road. To the north of this
depression occur the Livingstone Mountains and the Songea plateau or Ungoni block
with its residual masses.

1.5 Geology of the study area

1.5.1 Regional geology
The Ruhuhu basin situated on the eastern rift shoulder of the Nyasa rift and in
Tanzanian/Mozambique border it’s the area where there high exposure of the Karoo
rocks(Catuneanu et al., 2006). The basement rock of the Ruhuhu basin is of the
Paleoproterozoic metamorphic rocks of the Ubendian belt, hence it’s floored with
migimatites, amphibolite, mylonite and marbles the basin is subdivided into there sub
basin by the North-eastern trending fault

These three sub basin resting on an eastern-tilted faulting block, from northwest to
the southeast the Mchuchuma, Ngaka and Lumecha sub basin are recognized
Mchuchuma sub basin is separated from Ngaka sub basin by the Namschwela fault
which throw in excess of 1000m juxtaposing metamorphic rocks of the ubendian belt

3
and the Early to middle Triassic Manda bed . The deposition sequence of Ruhuhu
basin is termed as Songea group

Figure 2: Map showing sub-basin of Ruhuhu basins (Kreuser, Wopfner, & C.Z.
Kaaya, 1990)
1.5.2 Local geology
Ngaka coal field is in Ruhuhu Karoo basin and is comprised of two distinct coal
fields, which are; Mbalawala field (Ngaka south) with estimated resource of 251
millions of tonnes and Mbuyura field (Ngaka north) with estimated resoure of 207
millions of tonnes.The two fields are related to the configuration and relief of the
pre-Karoo surface and are separated by the easterly-trending Mbinga headland of
basement.The dominant lithology are carbonecaous mudstone,sandstone siltstone.

4
Mbalawala Pit is located in the Mbalawala field of the Ngaka basin. Coal is in the
lower coal measure Karoo subdivision named K2. The coal bearing beds, are
overlain by a dominantly sandstone unit at the top of which are mudstone, siltstone
and sandstone which pass up to red beds of K3.

Coming between the coal bearing beds and the pre-Karoo rocks, there is a
considerable thickness of K1 (perhaps lower K2) sediments, which are sandstone,
siltstone, shale (recorded in the drilled hole by Tancoal energy limited). Five coal
seams that is coal seam 500, coal seam 400, coal seam 300, coal seam 200 and coal
seam 100 are intersected from drilling which are economically mineable. But
currently it is only seam 400 and seams 300 are mined at the mine. All the three vary
in terms of their thickness and quality(Maganga and Jacob, 2016).

1.6 Objective
1.6.1 Main objective
Determination of quality coal at Ngaka coal mine

1.6.2 Specific objectives

 To prepare litho-logging of the three pits (North, Central and South pits)

 Determination of the coal quality parameters.

 To establish vertical distribution of quality coal

1.7 Significance of the study

 Improved plant efficiency due to higher coal heat content;
 Improved operation of ash handling system and lower ash disposal costs;
 Lower power plant operational and maintenance costs

1.8 Problem of the statement

Most of the coal mined at Ngaka are coals with low quality and value. These are
predominantly sub-bituminous and high-ash bituminous coal with low calorific value
(Maganga & Jacob, 2016).The use of low-quality coal reduces power plant
efficiency, increase emissions, and escalate plant maintenance requirements (Yalç
and Sancar, 2010)

5
The variation of coal quality within the mine pits dispute mining and the obtainable
of quality coal,led the company to mine low quality coal with a high cost,the root of
the diffence in quality of coal seam is unrevealed

The aim of work is to analyze the quality of various Coals at Ngaka and find out
which coal pit is suitable for different industrial application. This is achieved
through litho-logging and sample collection, proximity analysis to determine coal
quality parameter.

In order to mine quality coal Ngaka uses different method such as selective mining
technique, sorting to remove small gangue and blending in order to maintain efficient
quality control

6
 CHAPTER TWO
2.0 Literature review
Coal is an organic sedimentary rock that contains fluctuating amounts of carbon,
hydrogen, nitrogen, oxygen and sulphur along with trace amounts of other elements
together with mineral matter (Thomas2005). It is a solid, brittle, combustible,
carbonaceous rock formed by the decomposition and alteration of vegetation by
compaction, temperature and pressure. It varies in colour from brown to black and is
usually stratified (Orem and Finkelman, 2003).

2.1 Formation of coal

Coal formed millions of years ago when the earth covered with huge swampy forests
plants such as giant ferns and mosses grew.when plant grow, some died and fell into
the swamp waters. New plants grew up to take their places and when these died still
more grew. In time, there was thick layer of dead plants rotting in the
swamp.(Dennen et al., 2017)

The surface of the earth changed and water and dirt washed in, stopping the decaying
process. More plants grew up, but they too died and fell, forming separate layers.
After millions of years many layers had formed, one on top of the other.

Heat and pressure produced chemical and physical changes in the plant layers which
forced out oxygen and left rich carbon deposits. In time, material that had been plants
became coal. Coals are classified into three main ranks, or types: lignite, bituminous
coal, and anthracite. These classifications are based on the amount of carbon,
oxygen, and , and hydrogen present in the coal (Thomsona, 2007). Coals other
constituents include hydrogen, oxygen, nitrogen, ash, and sulfur. In the process of
transformation (Coalification), peat is altered to lignite, lignite is altered to sub-
bituminous, sub-bituminous coal is altered to bituminous coal, and bituminous coal is
altered to anthracite (McNair, 2006)

2.2 Coal quality

Majumdar et al. (2008) and (Mahapatra, 2018) define quality coal as coal with
highest carbon content value and few impurities such nitrogen, Sulphur, carbonate
mineral and clay minerals. Coal quality is determined by a physical characteristics
exhibit such as percentage ash, calorific value, volatile matter and carbon content.

7
Table 1 :Grading of non-coking coal base on heating value of coal(SEERVI, 2015)

Grade of coal Useful heat value(kcal/kg)

A >6200
B 5601 to 6200
C 4941 to 5600
D 4201 to 4940
E 3361 to 4200
F 2401 to 3360
G 1301 to 2400

Variations in thickness and type of rock may occur both within the seam and in the
strata forming its roof and floor, . The presence of layers of mudstone within a seam
reduces its value, because the quality and marketable value of coal is determined by
its ash content. Such layers may also indicate the beginning of a split within the
seam. The presence of sandstones can also result in operational problems at the
coalface.

Walker (2000) and Couch (2006) study the variation of coal in xinjiang coal mine
reported primary factor affecting the variations in coal characteristics is the burial
history of the original peat and its succeding movement, compression and
coalification.Hence results is differences in coal rank, controlled by contrast in the
geological conditions of temperature and pressure during the coalification processes.

Increasing rank is due to progressive and irreparable changes in the chemical and
physical properties of the coal, in the generalised sequence of: peat - lignite -
subbituminous coal -bituminous coal -semi-anthracite and anthracite (Nelson and
John, 1981)

The geological environment on which coal is deposited and lithified, the geological
process operates during coal formation influence the nature of coal seam such as
thickness, seam pitch, energy value, non-volatile content and moisture content
(Meinier, 2010)

D.K.Hobday (2001) carry study on influence of tectonic and deposition environment

on coal quality of Gondwana coal of South Africa reported that the control factor of
distribution of quality coal in a region controlled variable subsidence and

8
sedimentation rates in fore-deep, local pale- topographic effect, eustatically induced
changes in base level and marine transgression .In most case paleo topography and
depositional environment are important factor in determining coal seam geometry
and coal quality. Most of commercial coal contained in fluvial and delta plain
sequence, with thick, dip-elongate interchannel seams and really extensive coals
typically overlying abandoned delta.

However crucial seams are juxtaposed with conglomerate of wet alluvial-fan origin
or associated with quartzose barrier sandstone, other originate in clastic-starved
systems bordering shallow lakes.

The presence of impurities affects the quality of coal increasing value of ash content.
The quality of the coal is influence by seam thickness, the interburden presence of
intercalated layers such as sandstones, siltstone, carbonaceous mudstone all affect the
quality of coal. These variation result in seams to split laterally in one or two or more
beds separated by either carbonaceous sandstone, carbonaceous mudstone that
reduce the thickness of coal seam.

(Vamvuka and Galetakis, 2015) studied the characteristics of coal and explain
quality of coal is influenced by temperature, pressure and time during coalification
process since it defines coal ranks that reflect maturity of the coal. In generally low
rank coal such as lignite and sub-bituminous are considered as low-quality coal
because they produce low energy and produce higher ash after burning.

Also, they require special application technology to generate power to be profitably

utilized in industry and in power generation. High rank coal such as bituminous and
anthracite are high-quality coal because they have higher heating value and produce
low ash after combustion. Hence the quality of coal is determined based on physical
and chemical properties which exhibit after coalification process. Coal can classified
as cooking and non-cooking coal depend on coal ranks, composition, mineral content
and ability to soften when heated

9
 CHAPTER THREE
3.0 METHODOLOGY
3.1 Field studies
3.1.1 Litho-Logging
This involves measuring, description and documenting the lithological changes
vertically of the front section of the face of the pit. The aim of this is to produce
profile pit which show thickness of each lithology The litho-logging involve three
pits which are central pit, south pit and north pit.

The tool used during litho-Logging are

 GPS-for location of the area where is logged.

 Tape measure-for measuring thickness of the lithologies.
 Pen and notebook for recording the documents.
 Ladder – for climbing to higher height for measurements.

3.2.2 Sampling
The aim sampling is to obtaining samples which will be most representative of the
coal bed.

At Ngaka sampling is performed by channel sampling method where each sample

collected within particular coal sea. The sampling is carried out at the mine pits by
cutting of channels across coal seam in a face of the pit where mining is going on

Sample collected are representative of each coal seam. During channel sampling the
intercalated layers of sandstone splits, siltstone partings, less than 15cm thick
generally are included in a channel sample to check their impact in coal quality since
these materials will be included during mined coal. The tools used are geological
hammer ,scoop, sampling bags

Channel sampling is performed through the following procedure

 Preparation of surface the face should be cleaned with a wire brush to get
fresh sample
 Demarcation of the channel: After cleaning the surface, a channel is marked
by drawing two parallel lines 12-15 cm apart using chalk or paint
 Cutting the channel

10
  Collection the sample
 Labelling the sample; collected the coal sample is packed in the canvas sheet
and marked. Then the marked canvas is brought out of the mine to the
laboratory analysis.
3.2 Laboratory studies
3.2.1 Sample preparation
 Sample labeling; to avoid confusion and mixing of sample
 Crushing using jaw crusher size 0-10mm, it done twice.
 Dividing using Rotary sample divider at 100g mass.
 Dry sample to remove surface moisture/free moisture.
 Pulverizing by using Raymond mill to produce micro-particle sized sample
for further analysis

Figure 3: Instrument used during sample preparation (A) Raymond mill (B) Jaw
crusher (C) Drying shed (D) Rotary divider

11
3.2.2 Proximity analysis
Proximity analysis it’s the first analysis performed on coal subsequent to mining.
This involves heating of coal under various condition for variable amount of time to
determine moisture content, volatile matter, fixed carbon and ash content(Falcont &
Ham, 2009). The aim of this analysis is to determine the quality of the coal and its
characteristics , provide basis for buying and selling, it determine utilization of
coal(Zhu, 2014).At Ngaka coal mine the basics proximity analyzed are moisture
content and ash contents.

Moisture content

Moisture may occur in four possible forms within coal. These are

 Surface moisture: water held on the surface of coal particles or macerals.

 Inherent moisture: water held by capillary action within the microfractures of the
coal
 Decomposition moisture: water held within the coal's decomposed organic
compounds
 Mineral moisture: water which comprises part of the crystal structure of hydrous
silicates such as clays.

The moisture content of coals ranges from about 5% to 70%. Moisture is an

unwanted constituent of coals as it reduces the calorific, proximity analysis
determines total and inherent moisture.(Falcont & Ham, 2009)

Total moisture

Total Moisture is measured using A&D Moisture balance digital equipment which
measure the loss weight automatically

Inherent moisture

Inherent moisture, which is the water that is retained within the pores and fissures of
coal after all the surface moisture has been removed.(Falcont & Ham, 2009).This is
the water that found within the pore system of the coal during coal formation. It is
determined by weighing the mass of coal sample after heating in an oven for inherent
moisture

12
Inherent moisture analysis procedures

 Weigh the empty petri-dish and record as Mass M1

 Add 10.000g of a powder coal sample and record the Mass as M2
 Heat the sample with a dish in the oven at temperature 105 0C for 60 minutes.
 Take the sample out to cool and reweigh the Mass and record as Mass M3.

% Inherent Moisture =M2−M3×100%

M2−M1
Whereas;

M1=mass of empty petri-dish in grams.

M2=mass dish +sample in grams before heating.

M3=mass dish+sample after heating.

Ash content

Ash content, which is the residue that remains after combustion of the coal(Donahue
& Rais, 2009). The ash is made up of oxides of iron, aluminum, titanium,
magnesium, calcium, and silica. The relative proportions of these various
constituents determine the ash-fusion temperature, which is the temperature at which
the ash begins to soften and then melt

 Measure the weight of the empty crucible and record as Mass M1.
 Add 1.000g of ‘coal sample in a crucible and record as Mass M2.
 Burn the coal sample in a Ash Furnace at temperature 850 0C for 60 minutes.
 Take out the sample to cool and measure the weight again record as Mass M3
% ASH CONTENT =M2−M3 ×100%
M2−M1
M1=empty crucible
M2=crucible and sample before burning
M3=crucible and sample after burning
The Standard ash content for Ngaka coal mine is 13-20%. So, all analysis which fell
within these range are said to be accurate.

13
Figure 4: Equipment used during proximity analysis (A) A&D moisture balance for
measuring the moisture content (B)Ash furnace (C) An oven used for inherent
moisture (D) A weigh balance for ash sample

Calorific value (CV)

This is the heating value or energy content of the coal produced after combustion.CV
is the most commonly used as the basis for quality coal and economic value.(A &
Centre, 2011).Its determined using bomb calorimeter. This value is expressed in
Kcal/m3 (USA, Europe and Far East), KJ/m3 or Btu/ft3(British ),MJ/kg (South
Africa)(Falcont & Ham, 2009)

The calorific value of coal varies considerably depending on the ash, moisture
content and the type of coal. CV of the coal is expressed as the gross calorific value
(HG) which contain the latent heat of water vaporization and when latent heat of
water vaporization is not included it’s called Net calorific Value (HN).

14
Figure 5: Bomb calorimeter

15
 CHAPTER FOUR
4.0 RESULT AND DISCUSSION
4.1.1 Litho-logging
These are profiles of three pits (central pits, north pit and south pit) show the
distribution of the lithologies including the coal seams with their thickness and types.
From the coal seams, the samples were taken at interval of 1.5m per each sample
from each log at each coal seam per each pit.

16
Figure 6: shown profile of south pit and location where sample is collected.

17
4.2 Proximate analysis results
Table: Proximate data for central, south and North pit

Pit Sample ID Calorific value (Kcal/kg) Ash%

Central CP1 6275.05 Kcal/Kg 17.58%
CP2 61177 Kcal/Kg 18.83%
CP3 5653.75 Kcal/Kg 24.64%
CP4 5825.80 Kcal/Kg 22.71%
CP5 5935.42 Kcal/Kg 21.48%
South CH1 6214.75Kcal/Kg 18.02%
CH2 6128.64Kcal/Kg 19.23%
CH3 5917.89Kcal/Kg 21.34%
CHX 5537.28 Kcal/Kg 25.70%
CHY 5868.70 Kcal/Kg 22.28%
Cha 5825.00 Kcal/Kg 22.98%
CHb 5349 Kcal/Kg 28.5%
North NS1 4117.52 Kcal/Kg 42.70%
NS2 3172.85 Kcal/Kg 51.07%
NS3 4059. Kcal/Kg 43.5%
NSX 6700 Kcal/Kg 12.2%
NSY 6600 Kcal/Kg 13.37%
NSZ 6625 Kcal/Kg 13.54%

18
 6400

6200

6000
Calorific value (Kcal/Kg)
5800

5600

5400

5200

5000

4800
CH1 CH2 CH3 CHX CHY Cha CHb
Sample ID

Figure 7: A graph of Calorific value against sample ID at south pit

30

25

20
Ash (%)

15

10

0
CH1 CH2 CH3 CHX CHY Cha CHb
Sample ID

Figure 8: A graph of ash versus Sample ID at south pit

19
 8000

7000

6000
Calorific value (Kcal/Kg)
5000

4000

3000

2000

1000

0
NS1 NS2 NS3 NSX NSY NSZ
sample ID

Figure 9: A graph of colorific value verses sample ID at North pit

60

50

40
Ash(%)

30

20

10

0
NS1 NS2 NS3 NSX NSY NSZ
Sample ID

Figure 10: A graph of Ash versus Sample ID at North pit

20
 6400
6300
6200
Calorific value (Kcal/Kg) 6100
6000
5900
5800
5700
5600
5500
5400
5300
CP1 CP2 CP3 CP4 CP5
Sample ID

Figure 11: A graph of colorific value verses sample ID at Central pit

30

25

20
Ash (%)

15

10

0
CP1 CP2 CP3 CP4 CP5
Sample ID

Figure 12: A graph of Ash versus Sample ID at Central pit

21
4.2 Discussion
(SEERVI, 2015) reported the grade of coal based on calorific value where by coal
with calorific value >6200kcal/kg grade A, 5601kcal/kg to 6200kcal/kg grade B,
4941 kcal/kg to 5600 kcal/kg grade C, 4201 kcal/kg to 4940 kcal/kg D, 3361
kcal/kg to 4200 kcal/kg E, 2401 kcal/kg to 3360 kcal/kg F and 1301 kcal/kg to
2400 kcal/kg. Hence most of coal at Ngaka are of grade A and B.

The high-quality coal at Ngaka coal mine located at North pit, the pit has two
mineable coal seams, the upper one is coal seam four this coal has higher ash content
and low calorific value that range from 3172.85 Kcal/Kg to4117.52 Kcal/Kg this is
grade D is low quality coal. The second one is higher quality coal- Seam three which
found deeply depth 9.2m, the seam has few intercalated layers hence mined with few
contaminations and has higher calorific range from 6425 Kcal/Kg to 6700 Kcal/Kg
value and low ash content(15.54% to12.2%)

The south pit has two coal seams, the first coal is high quality, the lower coal seam it
has good coal but presence of intercalated layer that cannot be removed during
mining hence they are all mined make coal to have higher ash content and low
heating value.

The coal seam that is buried by unconsolidated sediment and highly weathered
sandstone are of low quality because high ash content, while coal buried by
compacted sandstone are of good quality. The coal seam with lot of small
intercalated layer usually has low quality.

Most of coal seam are less than one meter, hence are mined with a lot of dilution
which add ash content reduce colorific value. The high-quality coal is likely to occur
where coal seam thickness is greater than 1m and there no splits of sandstone or
mudstone. Each pit at Ngaka has coal seam with high quality and low quality but the
difference is the depth on which high quality coal can be mine and the thickness of
coal seam.

22
 CHAPTER FIVE
5.0 CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
5.1 Conclusion
The coal seam at ngaka less than one meter, the observed intercalated inorganic
material are coal sandstone and carbonaceous mudstone. The north pit has the
highest coal seam is 0.73m with less intercalated layers. Central pit and south pit
have less coal seam thickness and high intercalated layers such as layers reduce the
quality of coal in these pit.

From the results it’s observed that in Central pit has ash content range 17-24.6%,
this define the pit has more seam three which is economically mineable and quality.
The South pit has ash range 18-25% the pit has more S300 than S400 hence its
economically but not as central pit. North pit ash 12.2-51.07%, this show pits has
both S300 and S400, S300 with ash

12.2-13.54% and calorific value range 6425 Kcal/Kg to 6700Kcal/Kg are

economically mineable but S400 with ash 42.70-51.07% it’s unfit for blending, S400
ash 51.07% and 43.5 uneconomically

Generally north pits has the high quality coal at depth of 9.2m hence its can be mined
with highest cost to remove the overburden while the central has also quality coal but
not as of north, which has lot of intercalated this can be mined with lowest cost

Recommendation
 The company should find a new mining technique which will ensure that the
smallest layers within coal seam are removed.
 The company should adopt new coal cleaning technology so as to reduce the
effect of intercalated layers which are mined with coal because the Ngaka has
high quality coal but its quality are decreased due to these intercalated
material.
 The company should conduct more exploration in the Northern part of mine
sine the area highest quality coal.

23
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25
APPENDEX
Table 2 :Laboratory data for central pit

Sample Calorific value Ash% Inherent moisture% Total

ID (Kcal/kg) moisture%
CP1 6275.05 Kcal/Kg 17.58% 1.71% 2.68%
CP2 61177 Kcal/Kg 18.83% 1.63% 2.69%
CP3 5653.75 Kcal/Kg 24.64% 1.61% 2.64%
CP4 5825.80 Kcal/Kg 22.71% 1.76% 3.81%
CP5 5935.42 Kcal/Kg 21.48% 1.84% 3.43%
Table 3:Laboratory data for north pit

Sample Calorific value Ash% Inherent Total moisture%

ID (Kcal/kg) moisture%
NS1 4117.52 Kcal/Kg 42.70% 1.62% 2.59%
NS2 3172.85 Kcal/Kg 51.07% 1.66% 2.58%
NS3 4059. Kcal/Kg 43.5% 1.67% 2.89%
NSX 6700 Kcal/Kg 12.2% 1.55% 2.96%
NSY 6600 Kcal/Kg 13.37% 1.58% 2.87%
NSZ 6625 Kcal/Kg 13.54% 1.54% 2.94%
Table 4: Laboratory data for south pit

Sample Calorific value Ash% Inherent Total moisture%

ID (Kcal/kg) moisture%
CH1 6214.75Kcal/Kg 18.02% 1.27% 2.55%
CH2 6128.64Kcal/Kg 19.23% 1.26% 2.45%
CH3 5917.89Kcal/Kg 21.34% 1.23% 2.39%
CHX 5537.28 Kcal/Kg 25.70% 1.28% 3.34%
CHY 5868.70 Kcal/Kg 22.28% 1.29% 3.12%
Cha 5825.00 Kcal/Kg 22.98% 1.37% 3.35%
CHb 5349 Kcal/Kg 28.5% 1.32% 3.39%

26