How does the heat release rate of oil-fired furnaces compare to that of coal-fired furnaces?

Oil-fired furnaces typically have higher heat release rates compared to coal-fired furnaces due to the nature of the fuels and how they burn. Oil has a higher energy density than coal, meaning that it can produce more energy per unit volume when combusted. This results in a more efficient and intense combustion process.

In addition, oil can be atomized into fine droplets before combustion, which allows for a more complete and faster combustion reaction. This leads to a rapid release of heat. In contrast, coal requires more complex handling and preparation, such as crushing or grinding, to facilitate efficient combustion. This additional processing can detract from its effective heat release rate compared to oil.

Consequently, the design and operation of oil-fired furnaces capitalize on these characteristics, contributing to their ability to achieve higher heat release rates. This makes oil-firing systems particularly effective for applications that require quick and significant heating.