07-20-2010, 10:04 PM
They were used all over the place, Gary, as they improved the performance of the loco dramatically. Quoting from The Superheater Company's ad copy:
"The economy of the locomotive feedwater heater results from the fact - often proven practically - that if each pound of water is increased 11 degrees in temperature by waste heat, before it enters the boiler, it will be equivalent to a saving of one percent of the fuel required to convert it into steam. With a back pressure of 5 lb., the temperature of the feed water can be raised about 160 degrees F., thus representing a saving of nearly 15% in fuel consumed. Only about 12% to 16% of the exhaust from the cylinders is required, leaving a remainder amply sufficient to take care of the draft requirements without nozzle adjustment.
Further economy is obtained by reclaiming the condensate. Through this means, 15% of the water can be saved, which, in some cases, eliminates the necessity of stopping a train to take water. This is also equivalent to adding 1500 gal. to the water-carrying capacity of a 10,000 gal. tender."
Other companies offered similar performance and economies.
Wayne
"The economy of the locomotive feedwater heater results from the fact - often proven practically - that if each pound of water is increased 11 degrees in temperature by waste heat, before it enters the boiler, it will be equivalent to a saving of one percent of the fuel required to convert it into steam. With a back pressure of 5 lb., the temperature of the feed water can be raised about 160 degrees F., thus representing a saving of nearly 15% in fuel consumed. Only about 12% to 16% of the exhaust from the cylinders is required, leaving a remainder amply sufficient to take care of the draft requirements without nozzle adjustment.
Further economy is obtained by reclaiming the condensate. Through this means, 15% of the water can be saved, which, in some cases, eliminates the necessity of stopping a train to take water. This is also equivalent to adding 1500 gal. to the water-carrying capacity of a 10,000 gal. tender."
Other companies offered similar performance and economies.
Wayne