Coking Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
🔥
coking
[ˈkoʊkɪŋ ]
Definition
industrial process
Coking is a process in the petroleum and metallurgy industries where carbon-rich materials are heated in the absence of air to produce coke, a porous solid that is primarily used as a fuel and as a reducing agent in metallurgy. This process involves destructive distillation, where complex organic compounds decompose into simpler molecules at high temperatures. Coking plays a critical role in the production of steel and other metals, as it provides the necessary carbon content while eliminating impurities. Additionally, the process contributes to the production of various byproducts, including coal gas and tar, which can be further utilized in other industrial applications.
Synonyms
carbon reducing, carbonization.
Examples of usage
- The plant specializes in coking coal to produce high-quality coke.
- Coking is essential for the steel-making process.
- Factory emissions from coking have raised environmental concerns.
- The coking process generates various byproducts that can be recycled.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Industrial Use
- Coke is primarily used in blast furnaces for steel production, allowing for higher temperatures than regular coal.
- The coking process releases volatile compounds, which can be captured and used to produce chemicals, reducing waste.
- Major advancements in coking technology in the 20th century led to increased efficiency and reduced environmental impact.
Environmental Impact
- Coking can result in significant air pollution if not managed properly, hence the importance of emission controls.
- Newer coking methods aim to minimize carbon emissions, reflecting the shift towards sustainable industrial practices.
- Recycling and reusing waste products from the coking process can help mitigate environmental damage.
Cultural References
- Coking was a central theme during the Industrial Revolution, changing landscapes and urban development.
- Numerous documentaries have explored coking towns, showcasing the lives of workers and the industry's influence on their communities.
- In art, coking and the steel industry are often depicted as symbols of industrial strength and progress.
Origin of 'coking'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'coking' comes from the word 'coke,' which is the product formed from heating coal.
- Coke was first utilized in the iron industry in the late 17th century, changing the way iron was produced.
- The word 'coke' itself is believed to have derived from the Middle English word 'cok,' meaning 'a small black lump.'
The term 'coke' originates from the Middle English word 'cok', which referred to a small cake or a lump. The specific application of the term in relation to the carbonized product was first noted in the late 17th century. The concept of coking developed alongside the industrial revolution when there was a need for high-carbon fuels in metal production. The process of coking was developed to improve the efficiency and quality of fuel used in iron and steel production. During the 18th and 19th centuries, advancements in the coking process were made, particularly in the United Kingdom, where the iron industry was rapidly growing. The coking technique eventually spread worldwide, evolving into various forms and technologies in response to industrial demands and environmental regulations. Today, coking is a vital component of the metallurgical industry, as it creates the essential carbon source required for production processes.