My Blog My WordPress Blog
Related Articles
You already know that Coal Hut is a leading supplier of high quality coal for open hearths and closed installations. But do you know how coal is actually produced? In this post, we’ll look at the environmental factors that cause coal to form, along with a basic overview of the coal mining process.
About 300 million years ago, during the Carboniferous (Latin coal) time period, atmospheric oxygen content peaked at 35%, a far cry from the 21% we are used to today. Increased oxygen levels meant the landscape was teeming with trees. Because fungi and other microorganisms had not yet figured out how to decompose trees, leaves, and bark, remains were often left at the bottom of swampy areas as sea levels fell. This accumulation of this woody matter over time eventually formed what we know today as peat.
During this period, the earth’s surface was in a constant state of flux, constantly shifting and forming new materials such as sand, clay, and sedimentary rocks that buried the peat deeper into the earth. The pressure caused by the weight of these materials forced out any remaining moisture content, while the high temperatures near the Earth’s core turned the peat into coal.
There are two main methods of coal mining, namely: surface mining and deep mining, both of which are highly dependent on the geographical conditions of the coal deposits.
Surface mining is the appropriate method when the coal is buried less than 200 feet underground. The process involves heavy machinery removing vast amounts of topsoil and layers of rock to expose the coal deposits. After mining, the area is replanted and can be reused for arable land, wildlife habitat or property.
Underground mining, also known as deep mining, is used when coal is buried more than 200 feet underground. Some underground mines have been known to be as deep as 1,000 feet! Underground mining is much riskier from a health and safety perspective as it requires miners to ride elevators down long mine shafts, extract coal and operate machinery to transport the coal back to the surface.
Now that you have a better understanding of the coal production process, why not take a look at our wide range of coal product options? We have a fuel to suit all needs:
Group 2 Colombian coal is one of our star buys. It comes exclusively from Colombian mines and ignites easily with a naturally high flame.
Five Star Coal lives up to its name, producing high heat output, long burning time and low ash content.
House Coal is a great all-rounder that performs adequately in all departments, especially when it comes to cost efficiency.
Singles are perfect for smaller fireplaces and kettle stoves. It can be used to extend the life of a fire, maintain heat, or tame a blazing fire.
Surelite is a premium manufactured ovoid that sits neatly on the grate of your open fireplace or multi-fuel stove.
