Combustion Characteristics of a Westinhouse Multiple Retort Stoker at the University of Tennessee

It is of great importance to anyone operating a power plant to be familiar with the combustion characteristics of the furnace so as to realize the greatest possible efficiency. It was with this thought in mind that I have written this paper.

The most important factors to be considered in this case are, first of all, the air supply,as combustion is entirely dependent upon the presence of oxygen. The thickness and condition of the fuel bed must also be considered,as the resistance to the flow of air through the bed varies directly with the thickness of the fuel bed. The percentage of carbon dioxide in the flue gas is also important, as this gives one an idea as to the completeness of combustion of the fuel. The temperature of the flue gas as it leaves the furnace must also be considered,as a high stack temperature indicates a considerable loss of heat.