Boiler E:rplosions. 151 



BOILER EXPLOSIONS. 



BY GHAS. L KING, 

 Saperintendent University Machine Shop. 



In considering the subject of Boiler Explosions, I am aware 

 that it has heretofore received the attention of many able theorists 

 and mechanical engineers who do not agree in their conclusions. 

 That such diversity of opinion exists, is natural from the various 

 conditions of the matter discussed. 



What is here prepared may not be new, but the subject is of 

 such vast importance, that even repetition may be pardonable. 



If we for a moment consider the field, we find that its extension 

 precludes comprehending the whole in one short paper, which 

 covers the subject proportionally, as the hand might cover a 

 table. That the astonishing developments, attained by the use of 

 steam in the various industries throughout the country, must be 

 ascribed to its universal success as a moderately cheap prime 

 mover none can deny; and the facility with which it can be em- 

 ployed in any section of the land enables the manufacturer to locate 

 his mills wherever desirable, and then transport to them the mo 

 tive power. 



Without it, he must be content with the water courses wherever 

 they may be found, and ever after transport the material of man- 

 ufacture to and from the market. 



Without it many of our large cities and manufacturing centers 

 could not exist to-day. Only while it is considered less danger- 

 ous or less expensive than other agents, can steam maintain its 

 now prominent position of principal motive power for nearly all 

 branches of manufacture, transportation, etc. 



There are considerations in connection with the present methods 

 of utilizing steam, which, looked upon from every point, would 

 indicate clearly that we are justified by no means in accepting it 

 as the most economical prime mover obtainable. Many unsuc- 



