When starting a fire in a coal-fired boiler with chain grates or traveling grates, how much coal should be on the grates?

In coal-fired boilers utilizing chain grates or traveling grates, it is essential to maintain an appropriate coal bed thickness on the grates to ensure efficient combustion and effective heat transfer. The correct thickness of 3-4 inches provides a sufficient volume of coal to maintain a stable and efficient fire while allowing for adequate air distribution through the coal bed.

A coal bed that is too shallow, such as 1-2 inches, may not retain enough heat to ignite the coal effectively. Furthermore, a bed that is too thick, over 4-5 inches, can lead to incomplete combustion due to restricted airflow, resulting in lower efficiency and higher emissions. The range of 3-4 inches strikes a balance, allowing the fire to burn efficiently while enabling the operator to control the combustion process effectively. This thickness also helps in managing the rate of fuel consumption and maintaining steady steam production, which is crucial for the overall operation of the boiler system.