Positive outlooks on Penton’s International Coal Prep show

Despite regulations looming from the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Penton’s Energy’s annual Coal Prep Show has seen positive results. The show focuses on effective techniques for preparation and processing in the coal industry.

"Several weeks out from the event, we were looking at close to a 30% downturn, which mirrors the overall state of the industry. However, when all was said and done, the qualified attendee verification was just shy of 9% decline," stated Florence Torres, Show Director. "That speaks volumes about the quality of the event and the need to see and hear what coal producers and vendors are doing differently."

The new conference programming focused on alternative uses for coal, marketing at the operator level and updates on the instability of export opportunities. Exhibitors provided innovative equipment designs for progressing efficiency and consequently profitability. Existing studies were detailed by the Department of Energy booth. The studies explained and projected rare mineral extraction from coal and coal refuse – a potential use and revenue source for US coal.

Long-time exhibitor Jack Hopwood, Membership Chair of the Coal Preparation Society of America (CPSA) and Global Director of Material Handling at FLSmidth said, "… We still have all the key decision makers here. There was good conversation in amongst the booths; the technical sessions were well attended, considering the total attendance; and we had high-quality presentations."

A move to Louisville for the 2016 show was also announced. Benefits of moving include: a short distance to the Illinois Coal Basin, yet not too far away from the Appalachian roots of the show and straightforward air travel for international and domestic attendees.

Bob Hollis, The Daniels Co. commented: "The move to Louisville in 2016 is a great opportunity for our midwest companies to come and join those from other parts of the US and the world. There will be a greatly expanded show floor that promises to have the latest and greatest on display from coal preparation equipment manufacturers and process engineering firms. It is not to be missed from anyone involved in this business".

Edited from press release by Harleigh Hobbs

Read the article online at: https://www.worldcoal.com/power/04062015/positive-outlooks-on-pentons-international-coal-prep-show-2369/