Last checked by Coal Boss
GCV, or Gross Calorific Value, is the amount of heat released when a unit mass of coal burns completely. In India it is reported in kilocalories per kilogram (kcal/kg).
A higher GCV means more energy in every tonne. That is why buyers of non-coking coal — power plants, sponge-iron, cement, brick kilns and other industries — look at GCV first, and why it drives price.
GCV is measured in a laboratory on a prepared sample. The result depends on how the sample was taken and on the basis it is reported on — for example, as received (with all its moisture) or air-dried. Two reports on the same coal can differ simply because the basis differs, so always check which basis a figure is on.
What it means if you trade coal
Record the GCV you bought at, the GCV the lab reports on receipt and the GCV you sell at — and keep the basis alongside the number. Most quality disputes start where these three don't line up.
Hinglish mein, short mein
GCV yaani Gross Calorific Value — coal poora jalne pe kitni garmi deta hai, kcal/kg mein. GCV jitna zyada, har tonne mein utni zyada energy — isliye non-coking coal ka daam zyadatar GCV se tay hota hai. Report kis basis pe hai (as received ya air-dried), ye zaroor dekhiye — ek hi coal alag basis pe alag GCV dikha sakta hai.
Sources
- OfficialMinistry of Coal — Coal grades
- StandardBureau of Indian Standards — IS 1350 (Methods of test for coal and coke)
Coal Boss explanation, based on the sources above.
