2nd. A general labor saving throughout the plant in the elimination of stokers, coal passers, ash handlers, etc.
3rd. For equal heat value, oil occupies very much less space than coal. This storage space may be at a distance from the boiler without detriment.
4th. Higher efficiencies and capacities are obtainable with oil than with coal. The combustion is more perfect as the excess air is reduced to a minimum; the furnace temperature may be kept practically constant as the furnace doors need not be opened for cleaning or working fires; smoke may be eliminated with the consequent increased cleanliness of the heating surfaces.
5th. The intensity of the fire can be almost instantaneously regulated to meet load fluctuations.
6th. Oil when stored does not lose in calorific value as does coal, nor are there any difficulties arising from disintegration, such as may be found when coal is stored.
7th. Cleanliness and freedom from dust and ashes in the boiler room with a consequent saving in wear and tear on machinery; little or no damage to surrounding property due to such dust.
The disadvantages of oil are:
1st. The necessity that the oil have a reasonably high flash point to minimize the danger of explosions.
2nd. City or town ordinances may impose burdensome conditions relative to location and isolation of storage tanks, which in the case of a plant situated in a congested portion of the city, might make use of this fuel prohibitive.