ISO 17247:2020

Overview

ISO 17247:2020 outlines the ultimate analysis of coal and coke, providing standardized methods for determining their fundamental chemical composition. This third edition improves upon previous versions by updating references, refining test methods, and specifying constants for result calculations. Designed by ISO/TC 27 and its subcommittee SC 5, this international standard supports the coal and coke industries by establishing a uniform basis for comparing different samples through ultimate analysis.

Ultimate analysis refers to the quantification of carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, sulfur, ash, moisture, and oxygen (calculated by difference) in coal and coke. Accurate and consistent analysis is crucial for quality control, fuel evaluation, and regulatory compliance across global markets.

Key Topics

• Scope and Application
  ISO 17247:2020 applies broadly within the coal and coke sectors, enabling reliable comparison of samples based on their elemental makeup.

• Sample Preparation
  Proper conditioning and preparation of coal/coke samples ensure valid and reproducible results according to the specified test methods.

• Test Methods
  The standard references classical and instrumental techniques for measuring key components:

  • Carbon and Hydrogen: ISO 609, ISO 625, ISO 29541
  • Nitrogen: ISO 29541
  • Total Sulfur: ISO 334, ISO 19579, ISO 20336
  • Ash: ISO 1171
  • Moisture: Various ISO methods depending on coal type and reporting basis

• Expression of Results
  Results may be reported on different bases (e.g., air-dried, as-received, dry) with precise formulae provided for converting between them, including handling of hydrogen and oxygen content related to moisture.

• Test Reporting
  Test reports must detail sample identification, reference to ISO 17247:2020, date of analysis, and method of result expression, promoting traceability and transparency.

• Definitions and Terminology
  Terms align with ISO 1213-2 for consistency in global communication. For example, oxygen content is determined by difference from measured elemental percentages.

Applications

ISO 17247:2020 is essential for:

• Quality Control in Coal and Coke Production
  Ensuring products meet required chemical profiles for combustion and industrial use.

• Comparative Analysis
  Allowing buyers, sellers, and regulators to assess coal and coke quality uniformly.

• Environmental and Compliance Monitoring
  Accurate sulfur and nitrogen content measurement helps manage emissions regulations.

• Research and Development
  Supporting innovation in coal processing, utilization, and alternative fuel formulation.

• Trade and Contracts
  Facilitating clear specifications and reliable product descriptions in international coal and coke markets.

Related Standards

ISO 17247:2020 works alongside multiple complementary ISO standards focused on mineral fuel analysis, including:

• ISO 334 – Determination of total sulfur in solid mineral fuels
• ISO 579 & ISO 589 – Determination of total moisture in coke and hard coal
• ISO 609 & ISO 625 – Carbon and hydrogen determination methods
• ISO 1171 – Ash determination in solid mineral fuels
• ISO 19579 & ISO 20336 – Infrared spectrometry and Coulomb titration methods for sulfur
• ISO 29541 – Instrumental method for total carbon, hydrogen and nitrogen content

Together, these standards provide a comprehensive framework for analyzing and reporting coal and coke properties, ensuring consistency and reliability across global industries.

Keywords: ISO 17247, ultimate analysis, coal analysis, coke analysis, elemental composition, coal quality, sulfur determination, moisture content, carbon content, hydrogen content, nitrogen analysis, ash analysis, standardized testing, international coal standards.