The Relative Value in Locomotive Service of Different Sizes of the Same Coals: Analysis of Results of Various Tests Tends to Indicate That the Evaporation per Pound of Coal Increases and the Pounds of Coal per Unit of Work Decrease as the Percentage of Slack Decreases

Abstract

Abstract The paper deals with the comparative locomotive-fuel values of various grades (sizes) of coal from the same mine. It does not attempt to determine a formula which would be applicable to any grade of coal from any district, but summarizes such information as is obtainable from the various railroads and elsewhere. It deals in a general way with the characteristics of coals, their preparation, and their physical as well as chemical make-up, and with the effect of these factors on the condition of coal supplied to locomotives. It emphasizes the importance of making sure that the coals tested are representative as to size and quality and that a sufficient number of tests are made with each grade of coal to secure a reliable average.