A. Greater heating surface, lighter fire and more complete combustion
are possible with the larger grate surface, because a larger amount is
burning at one time at a slower rate of combustion.
59. Q. Why are grates made to shake, and how, when and where should they
be shaken?
A. For the purpose of breaking any clinkers that might form and to shake
out all refuse from the grates. The best time to shake grates is when
throttle is closed, as there is no exhaust to carry the unconsumed gases
and sulphur through the flues into the front end, which is liable to
choke or clog up netting and cause a steam failure. Grates should not be
shaken while passing over bridges, near lumber or hay yards or through
prohibited territory.
60. Q. Do you understand that coal furnished represents money invested,
and should be fired economically and not allowed to fall out of the
gangway?
A. The fuel of locomotives is property and represents money invested the
same as do buildings, rolling stock, etc.; careless or inefficient
firemen who waste fuel destroy property as certainly as though cars or
engines were smashed up. The coal should be carefully raked off the deck
and in from the gangways; it should not be allowed to fall, as it is
wasted and dangerous to people near the track. The deck should be kept
clean for greater comfort and convenience.
61. Q. Is is objectionable to fill the tanks too full of coal or
overflow tank at standpipes or water tanks?
A. It is. Tanks filled too full of coal are dangerous and a great waste
of coal, as the jar when running will cause a part of it to fall off;
water overflowing from tanks results in washing away the ballast and in
cold weather freezes over the tracks.