Coal-oil mixtures: an alternative fuel for the commercial markets and large residential markets

Results are presented of Phase I of a program aimed at promoting wide-spread use of coal-oil mixtures in large residential and commercial sector size oil-fired heating equipment. Fuel properties are discussed including viscosity, heating values, and effect of coal particle size. On-site mixing of COM is not considered practical for users in this size range and a number of central preparation plant projects are in progress. Options for on-site storage including the addition of paddle agitators, recirculation agitation systems, auxiliary tanks, and stable slurries are discussed. Fuel pump, controls, and atomizer modifications will be required as well. The coal as may present special problems and sootblowers, cyclones, baghouses, and scrubbers are considered.