How is the heating value of coal measured?

The heating value of coal is measured by the number of British Thermal Units (B.T.U.) per pound of coal. This measurement reflects the energy content of the coal and is essential for assessing its effectiveness as a fuel source. The higher the B.T.U. per pound value, the more energy is released when the coal is burned, which is a critical factor in various applications, including electricity generation and heating.

Measuring by weight alone does not provide information about the energy content; hence, it does not accurately represent the heating value. Similarly, measuring by volume is impractical and misleading because coal can vary in density and moisture content, affecting the energy output. Combustion time is not a direct measurement of the heating value either; it refers to how long the coal burns but does not quantify the energy produced per pound. Therefore, focusing on the number of B.T.U. per pound is the most accurate and standardized method for determining the heating value of coal.