Anthracite coal, often referred to as "hard coal," is known for its remarkable heat-producing qualities, making it a preferred choice for residential heating and industrial applications. Anthracite coal is available in various sizes, each catering to specific needs and heating appliances. In this article, we'll explore the different sizes of anthracite coal and the applications they are best suited for.

1. Pea Coal:

Pea coal is one of the smallest sizes of anthracite coal, typically ranging from 13/16 to 9/16 inches in diameter. It is often used in hand-fired stoves, as well as some gravity-fed coal stoves and small coal boilers. Pea coal's small size allows for even combustion and efficient heat output, making it suitable for residential heating in smaller stoves and furnaces.

2. Nut Coal:

Nut coal is slightly larger than pea coal, with diameters ranging from 9/16 to 5/16 inches. This size is commonly used in gravity-fed stoker furnaces, where the coal is automatically fed into the combustion chamber. Nut coal's consistent size allows for efficient burning and even heat distribution. It is a popular choice for heating larger homes and commercial spaces.

3. Stove Coal:

Stove coal, also known as chestnut coal, is larger than nut coal, typically ranging from 1 5/8 to 13/16 inches in diameter. This size is suitable for hand-fired stoves, coal ranges, and some gravity-fed stoker furnaces. Stove coal's size makes it easy to handle and provides a steady heat output, making it a versatile choice for various heating appliances.

4. Egg Coal:

Egg coal, with diameters ranging from 1 5/8 to 5/16 inches, is a versatile size suitable for a wide range of heating applications. It is often used in hand-fired stoves, some gravity-fed stoker furnaces, and even some coal-fired power plants. Egg coal offers good combustion characteristics and provides a consistent and efficient heat source.

5. Rice Coal:

Rice coal is the smallest size of anthracite coal, with diameters ranging from 5/16 to 5/32 inches. It is commonly used in automatic stoker furnaces and boilers, as well as in some industrial processes. Rice coal's small size allows for precise control over combustion, making it an efficient choice for applications that require fine-tuned heat output.

6. Buckwheat Coal:

Buckwheat coal is even smaller than rice coal, typically measuring 9/32 to 3/16 inches in diameter. It is primarily used in specialized industrial processes, including the manufacture of silicon carbide and other high-temperature products. Buckwheat coal's small size and consistent quality make it suitable for precise and controlled combustion.

Conclusion

Anthracite coal comes in a range of sizes, each tailored to specific heating appliances and industrial applications. Whether you're heating your home with a hand-fired stove or using it in an automatic stoker furnace, there's an anthracite coal size that's ideal for your needs. Understanding the characteristics and applications of each size ensures that you can make the most of this clean-burning and efficient fuel source for your heating and industrial requirements.