31. What is the weight of a cubic inch of powder?
About half an ounce; a cubic foot will therefore weigh about 54 pounds, and 32 cubic inches, one pound.
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32. How is government powder packed?
In barrels of 100 lbs. each; the barrels being large enough to allow sufficient space for the powder to move when rolled to prevent its caking.
33. How are the barrels marked?
On one head with the place and year of manufacture, and with the kind of grain, cannon, musket or rifle; on the other head with the year in which it was proved and the proof-range, leaving room for subsequent proofs, which are marked in the same manner.
34. When powder is injured by dampness, can it be restored?
If the water absorbed does not exceed 7 per cent., it can be by drying. If it has absorbed from 7 to 12 per cent., after drying, it remains porous and friable, and is unfit for transportation. In this case it is better to work it over.
35. How is powder stored?