Low Temperature Distillation of Lignite Coal.

Progress in Low-Rank Coals

“…A systematic investigation of the carbonization of lignite from various localities was made at the University of North Dakota by Babcock and his associates (S, 4). Their results proved conclusively that the gas from lignites of different deposits is closely similar, that it may be removed at nearly the same temperature, and that a residue and by-product of general similarity are left, although the quantity of each varies considerably, A description of apparatus and procedure is to be found in Babcock's reports (8,4)• The efficient carbonization of lignite for the maximum production of by-products, char of suitable character for briquetting, and gas of high heat value is influenced materially by the temperature of carbonization and the moisture content of the lignite. Other factors, such as retort design, rate of heating, etc., also have their influence but to a lesser degree.…”

“…Benson and Davis (8) and Benson and Canfield (7) found that in the low-temperature distillation of a sub-bituminous coal from Washington, the maximum yield of by-products was obtained at approximately 715°F. (379°C .).…”