The diagram illustrates the process of generating electricity from coal.
Overall, it is a man-made, linear process that involves multiple stages and specialized equipment. The process begins with coal delivery and ends with electricity production.
Coal is first transported by truck and fed into a furnace through a conveyor belt. Inside the furnace, it is burned with oxygen to produce raw syngas. This gas then undergoes a purification process to remove harmful substances, including carbon dioxide, mercury, and sulfur. The purified syngas is directed to a gas turbine, which powers a generator to produce electricity.
At the same time, the furnace releases hot exhaust gases, which enter a heat recovery steam generator. This system converts water into steam, which drives a steam turbine. The steam turbine is connected to another generator, increasing the overall electricity output. Additionally, flue gases are released into the atmosphere, and slag is collected as a byproduct of coal combustion.
Throughout the process, both gas and steam turbines are used efficiently to maximize energy production while minimizing harmful emissions through purification and waste management systems.