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How to Convert Coal Dust to Fuel

Coal is one of the primary fuels for power generation in the United States. It has been used as a fuel source for trains and other machinery for more than 100 years. When mining coal, large machinery crushes the big pieces into smaller ones. Often, this process leaves a considerable amount of coal dust, either from mining or crushing. You can convert this coal dust into a burnable fuel with the right equipment and a little patience.

Things You'll Need

Mask to cover mouth and nose
Shovel
Dust receptacle
Industrial fan
Ductwork
Pulverized coal-fired boiler

Instructions

- 1
  Find a source of coal dust, such as a coal mine, coal cellar or other place where there are large amounts of coal. The larger the amount of coal, the more coal dust that accumulates. Get permission from the owner of the operation before collecting any coal dust.
- 2
  Put the mask on over your nose and mouth to keep from breathing in the dust. Collect the coal dust with a shovel and place it in a receptacle, such as a storage bin or cloth sack. Do not use a garbage bag as it can easily tear and create a mess.
- 3
  Bring the coal dust to the area housing the coal dust boiler. Connect ductwork from near the receptacle to the furnace. Place the dust into the duct. Blow the dust into the boiler using the industrial fan.
- 4
  Connect the boiler to the power source of your choosing. Burning the coal dust creates heat, which can boil water and create steam. Steam can power engines or turbines to create electricity. Use the burning coal dust as a heating source for the home.

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