ABSTRACT
An ash fusion test based on the electrical resistance measurement of coal ash has been developed where the rate of change of resistance with temperature is characterized by a step change denoting the onset of fusion and is a "finger-print" of the sample. In an EPRI funded project, this test has been evaluated and compared to the ASTM ash fusion test with respect to its method, apparatus and capability in predicting field slagging performance on ten coal samples having varying slagging performance in six boiler units as studied during the EPRI/Department of Energy funded Coal Quality Expert Project. The method employs identical conditions of sample preparation, heating rate and environment to those for the ASTM test and is easily reproducible. The repeatability of the data and its capability of predicting field slagging performance have been found to be superior to those for ASTM test. Extension of the data base, replication of work in other laboratories for method standardization and ultimate submission to Standard Institutions are recommended to fill a long felt need of a reliable ash fusion test.
