Petroleum Coke

Definition

Petroleum coke is a black solid material resulting from the decomposition of heavy petroleum process stream. The quality of the coke is dependent upon the crude oil processed in the refinery. These substances experience fracturing and carbonization that result into a high carbon to hydrogen ration product, which may be granular. The initial product of the coking process, which is in the family of Petroleum cokes, is used as a solid fuel.

Usage

Petroleum Coke can serve as either an energy source or as carbon source. Fuel grade petroleum coke, which serves as an energy source, represents about 71 percent of the total “pet coke” production. Petroleum Coke is burned to produce energy used in making cement, lime, co-generation and other industrial applications. The cement industry utilizes large amounts because it requires higher kiln temperatures and the sulfur dioxide from the coke is adsorbed into the process. The most attractive feature of this product is that it produces around 7500 Kcal/Kg as compared to the 6000 Kcal/Kg associated with coal and, unlike coal, has very little ash and lower volatiles.

Typical Composition

ElementTypical Content
Total Moisture6.00%
Ash0.56%
Volatile matter10.49%
Fixed Carbon84.64%
Sulfur4-6%
Gross Calorific Value7500 Kcal/Kg