An on-line coal quality analyser is presented. Using microwave double-bridge method

coal quality parameters

such as the low calorific value

volatile

ash content

and water content of furnace-ingoing pulverized coal can be directly measured on-line

and the results can be displayed on the screen of micro-computer in the central control room. After putting the said analyser into operation in a thermal power plant

the combustion condition of boiler has been obviously improved

the calorific efficiency being somewhat enhanced

so that the fuel cost can be lowered.