How is charcoal shaped into the little nuggets?

Question

The process?

Answer 1

Crushed coal is first dried and then heated to about 1,100° F (590° C) to drive off the volatile components. After being air-cooled, it is stored until needed.

Charcoal, and minor ingredients such as the starch binder are fed in the proper proportions into a paddle mixer, where they are thoroughly blended. At this point, the material has about a 35% moisture content, giving it a consistency somewhat like damp topsoil.

The blended material is dropped into a press consisting of two opposing rollers containing briquette-sized indentations. Because of the moisture content, the binding agent, the temperature (about 105° F or 40° C), and the pressure from the rollers, the briquettes hold their shape as they drop out the bottom of the press.

ref: http://science.enotes.com/how-products-encyclopedia/charcoal-briquette

Answer 2

Charcoal is ground up or pulverized, mixed with an adhesive which holds the particles together and then rolled up into balls.

Answer 3

charcoal is burnt wood and pieces of coal. they are manufactured and put into a mold at the factory. its not the same as coal that is mined.