Inventors:
Horst Huettenhain - Benicia CA
August D. Benz - Hillsborough CA
John Getsoian - Ann Arbor MI
Assignee:
Bechtel Group, Inc. - San Francisco CA
Arcanum Corp. - Ann Arbor MI
International Classification:
C10L 500
Abstract:
A method and apparatus for removing light hydrocarbons, such as heptane, from coal agglomerates includes an enclosed chamber having a substantially horizontal perforate surface therein. The coal agglomerates are introduced into a water bath within the chamber. The agglomerates are advanced over the surface while steam is substantially continuously introduced through the surface into the water bath. Steam heats the water and causes volatilization of the light hydrocarbons, which may be collected from the overhead of the chamber. The resulting agglomerates may be collected at the opposite end from the surface and subjected to final draining processes prior to transportation or use.