_Peat Investigations._--Investigations into the distribution,
production, origin, nature, and uses of peat are being conducted by Mr.
C. A. Davis, and include co-operative arrangements with State Geological
Surveys and the Geologic Branch of the U.S. Geological Survey. These
organizations conduct surveys which include the mapping of the peat
deposits in the field, the determination of their extent and
limitations, the sampling of peat from various depths, and the
transmittal of samples to the Pittsburg laboratories for analysis and
test.[28]
This work is co-ordinated in such a manner as to result in uniform
methods of procedure in studying the peat deposits of the United States.
The samples of peat are subjected to microscopic examination, in order
to determine their origin and age, and to chemical and physical tests at
the laboratories in Pittsburg, so as to ascertain the chemical
composition and calorific value, the resistance to compressive strains,
the ash and moisture content, drying properties, resistance to abrasion,
etc. Occasionally, large quantities of peat are disintegrated and
machined, and portions, after drying for different periods, are
subjected to combustion tests in steam boilers and to tests in the gas
producer, to ascertain their efficiency as power producers.
_Results._--The full value of such investigations as have been described
in the preceding pages cannot be realized for many years; but, even
within the four years during which this work has been under way, certain
investigations have led to important results, some of which may be
briefly mentioned:
The chemical and calorific determinations of coals purchased for the use
of the Government have resulted in the delivery of a better grade of
fuel without corresponding increase in cost, and, consequently, in
saving to the Government. Under this system, of purchasing its coal
under specifications and testing, the Government is getting more nearly
what it pays for and is paying for what it gets. These investigations,
by suggesting changes in equipment and methods, are also indicating the
practicability of the purchase of cheaper fuels, such as bituminous coal
and the smaller sizes of pea, buckwheat, etc., instead of the more
expensive sizes of anthracite, with a corresponding saving in cost. The
Government’s fuel bill now aggregates about $10,000,000 yearly.
[Illustration: PLATE XXII.
Fig. 1.--Dryer for Lignite Briquetting Press.