Coke is a fuel byproduct derived from low-sulfur bituminous coal that produces little to no smoke. The resulting residue consists almost entirely of carbon and is hard, gray, and porous. Learn about coke’s most common uses from Clinch Mountain Transport Inc., a Thorn Hill, TN, transport company that specializes in heavy duty hauling services and fuel products.

Transport Company Explains Coke’s Uses

Iron Production

Coke is more than fuel in iron production, as it reduces hematite, or iron oxide, content in the metal by combusting and creating carbon monoxide. Combustion occurs without producing excessive amounts of smoke, unlike bituminous coal, resulting in an effective coal substitute. Additionally, hard foundry coke lends itself to ductile and cast iron production.

Coal Substitute

Residences throughout the United Kingdom and Australia relied on coke for household heat in the 1950s through the 1970s due to its smokeless effect. Its use in British homes increased significantly following the Clean Air Act of 1956. Parliament passed this act after the Great Smog of 1952, the same year Elizabeth II became queen.

Synthesis Gas

Synthesis gas production is another coke use. Gas creation occurs by passing air over burning-hot coke to produce a carbon monoxide, nitrogen, and hydrogen mixture. The gas offers multiple applications, including use as a transitional product in the creation of industrial fertilizer and ammonia. It is also utilized as fuel in the manufacturing of electricity and steam and as a chemical component in numerous petrochemical processes.

Scotch Whisky

Perhaps one of coke’s more unique uses is in the production of scotch whisky. The famous Highland Park distillery in the Kirkwall section of Orkney, Scotland roasts barley malt in kilns fueled by coke and peat mixtures.

Coke is just one of the quality fuel products sold by Clinch Mountain Transport Inc. This transport company sells coke and coal, in addition to providing heavy duty hauling services for a wide range of industries, including farming and construction. Call (865) 767-3610 to learn more about their bulk aggregate supplies, visit their website for service details, and like them on Facebook for tips and resources.