2007-07-02 09:29:48 · 2 answers · asked by stu 1 in Science & Mathematics ➔ Earth Sciences & Geology
There's no such thing as "power station grade" coal.
Power stations will burn whatever grade of coal is locally and cheaply available. All they need to do is create enough heat to boil water, which in turn drives a steam turbine. So they burn lignite, bituminous, or anthracite - whatever they can get their hands on.
What do you want to use the coal for at home? I wouldn't put straight high grade coal in a wood stove or fireplace, as it could get so hot that it will melt the fireplace. Coal produces between 14 and 30 million BTU per ton if that helps.
2007-07-02 09:41:11 · answer #1 · answered by minefinder 7 · 3⤊ 0⤋
Sure, you just have to be careful - I burn coal in my fireplace, but I burn it on bricks because I don't want it to melt my wood-rack. I burn it with wood, because if you burn it straight it tends to just smoulder, and it kind of stinks (even wyoming coal).
2007-07-02 11:59:00 · answer #2 · answered by naturalplastics 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋