Coal technologists are concerned with the recovery and utilisation of all forms of coal and its by-products. They may work in one of the following major areas:
Geology: Coal technologists specializing in geology conduct geological surveys to determine the location, extent and quality of coal deposits. They are closely involved in drilling programmes to determine whether a coalfield can be mined economically. They also decide what the coal can be used for, e.g. electricity generation or gasification for making petroleum products.
Mining: Technologists regularly analyze samples from the coalface and report results to the mine engineer and manager. They determine the presence of methane gas as well as other explosive coal derivatives. They assist in the washing plant and in grading, and provide management with valuable information which can be used to run the mine at a profit.
Coal preparation and processing: This field entails product evaluation, quality control and aspects related to the use of coal in power stations. Technologists are employed by Sasol, the petrochemical and metallurgical industry, as well as in the fields of domestic heating and pollution control.
Coal analysis: Coal technologists evaluate the product in terms of specialized variables and properties. Chemical, analytical and physical tests are performed depending on the nature and application of the product.
Research: This is conducted to determine how the natural resource can best be utilized for the benefit of mankind. These coal technologists continually strive to improve existing techniques and methods in the coal industry.
Satisfying Aspects
- challenging and interesting work
- being able to apply modern technology
- contributing towards the country's economy
Demanding aspects
- requires lots of concentration
- the environment can be dangerous
- working in cramped and noisy mine conditions
Requirements
A coal technologist should:
- have scientific aptitude;
- have analytical reasoning ability;
- be practical:
- approach to his work systematically;
- be responsible; physically fit;
- good concentration
School Subjects
National Senior Certificate meeting degree requirements for a degree course
National Senior Certificate meeting diploma requirements for a diploma course
Each institution will have its own minimum entry requirements.
Compulsory Subjects: Mathematics, Physical Sciences
Recommended Subjects: Life Sciences
Training
Degree: A BSc degree with Chemistry and/or Geology as a major can be followed at all South African universities. A degree in Chemical Engineering is available at UCT, UP, US, NWU, UNISA, Wits and UKZN
Diploma: The N.Dip. Chemical Engineering can be followed at CPUT, TUT, DUT, VUT, following by BTech to qualify as a technologist. This course includes training in coal processing.
Both the degree and diploma takes three years to complete full-time. Some courses may be completed on a part-time basis.
Employer
- National Institute for Coal Research
- such organizations as: Sasol, Mittal Steel, Eskom, SABS, NECSA
- Coal mining companies
- Brick manufacturers
- Cement manufacturers
- Coal marketing companies
- Gas plants
- Power stations
Contact
The Program Manager
Division of Materials Science and Technology (MATTEK)
CSIR
P O Box 395
Pretoria, 0001
Tel. (012) 841-2911