UNIVERSITY FURNACE

Press, Volume C, Issue 29511, 12 May 1961, Page 12

UNIVERSITY FURNACE

Plant At Ham Tested

The boiler and 50ft smokestack at the Engineering School of the University of Canterbury at Ham have been tested this week. Wood fires have been lit to dry out the firebrick and assist the adjustment and correc’ion of the controlling instruments.

The boiler has been installed by the mechanical division of the Ministry of Works in Christchurch It is complete except for the lining of the boiler and final painting. The district architect for the Ministry of Works (Mr P. C. Cornish) said yesterday that it was necessary to dry out the firebrick before it was subjected to the full heat of the furnace.

A coal of very low sulphur content is to be used in the furnace. The coal comes from the Reefton area. It has been chosen by the Mines Department. Mr Cornish said that the type of coal being used would mean that the furnace would not create a nuisance. The instruments, the mechanical stoker, and a highly efficient grit arrester installed in the flue, would ensure that air pollution was kept very low. In the testing, however, some dark smoke might be unavoidable. he said.

Before the boiler plant can be put into service it must be tested and passed by an inspector of the Marine Department. The tests are being prepared.

The boiler will heat the main blocks at the Engineering School next term. A smaller boiler was installed for the limited heating needed earlier.