The ECA™ is the first on-the-belt, full-stream analyzer to utilize Prompt Gamma Neutron Activation Analysis (PGNAA) technology, a technique that has been widely employed for on-line elemental coal analysis of sample streams for over 15 years.

PGNAA technology is a significant improvement over dual-gamma and other less sophisticated analytical approaches for through-belt ash measurement. It measures major ash constituents independently as well as sulfur, and then sums them to determine total ash. Because of this, it is not coal specific and is highly reliable in applications where ash mineralogy varies or where there are multiple seams or coal types.  The ECA also provides minute-by-minute analyses of sulfur, and with an integrated moisture meter, can present moisture and Btu/lb values as well.

The ECA can be used in applications for productivity improvement in pit management, prep plants, and inventory management. Its versatility makes it appropriate for raw coal, plant feed, clean coal, blended coal, and refuse. All types and ranks of coal can be accommodated, including bituminous, sub-bituminous, lignite, and petroleum coke. By precisely determining ash and sulfur, operators can lower operating costs by sorting and blending with confidence and minimizing coal re-handling. Total mine recovery can be increased by conserving premium coal, moving low quality coal, and controlling out-of-seam dilution. At a prep plant, the ECA can increase yield by controlling plant gravity and by controlling an upstream bypass.

The ECA employs PGNAA, a technique pioneered and commercialized by us in 1984. Thermo Scientific PGNAA coal analyzers are operating today at more than 100 sites. Through-belt PGNAA analysis is widely used in the cement industry where Thermo has delivered more than 150 CrossBelt® systems. The utility of the ECA can be enhanced by applying either the COBOS blending software, or the Silo Tracking Software to track coal composition in downstream bunkers, stockpiles, or silos.