MANOJ SINHA
Ramgarh, July 29: Tata Steel’s efforts to become self-reliant date back to its early days when the company acquired its mines and reserves to secure energy and resources for the production of steel.
In 1977, Tata Steel (erstwhile TISCO) initiated a major expansion project involving open-cast mining at West Bokaro Colliery. On completion of the project, West Bokaro Division was expected to supply 0.72 million tonnes of clean coal annually to Jamshedpur Works. The expansion was crucial for the West Bokaro Division to meet the company’s coal requirements.
JRD Tata inaugurated the first equipment installed in Washery-2
Recognising this, on December 11, 1980, JRD Tata, former Chairman of Tata Sons, visited West Bokaro for the first time, and exhorted the employees to redouble their efforts. During his visit, JRD Tata inaugurated the first equipment installed in Washery-2, a 45-tonne vibrating screen, and unveiled a plaque on the occasion. He also visited Quarry A to inspect the operation.
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Online clean coal ash analyser
The Washery and Logistics were combined to form the Coal Beneficiation Group. Over the years, the Coal Beneficiation Group has constantly upgraded its technologies and facilities to stay ahead of the times and meet the fast-changing nature of the Company’s needs.
At present, the Coal Beneficiation Group has a capacity of beneficiation of 7 million tonnes per annum of raw coal. The material handling facility has been converted from a mono-cable ropeway to a long pipe conveyor, demonstrating its commitment towards modernisation and efficiency in resource utilisation. Some of the technological advancements in coal beneficiation include an online clean coal ash analyser, scrolled evolve cyclone, vacuum belt filter and reflux classifier.
The Group has achieved many pioneering milestones, including being the first in India to implement coal beneficiation in washeries in 1951. It also has the world’s largest vacuum belt filter in coal mining, which significantly enhances clean coal production. Safety, health and the environment are the key pillars of the Group’s operations. It prioritises responsible practices and strives to minimise its environmental impact.
Upholding the legacy and guiding principles of JRD Tata, the Coal Beneficiation Group of West Bokaro Division aims to continuously strive for excellence.