d with the conditions of temperature and humidity under convenient
control, this type of kiln has the elements most necessary to produce
satisfactory drying in the quickest possible elapsed time.

It must not be inferred from this, however, that this class of dry
kiln may be installed and satisfactory results obtained regardless of
how it is handled. A great deal of the success of any dry kiln--or any
other apparatus, for that matter--depends upon intelligent operation.

Operation of the "Blower" Dry Kiln

It is essential that the operator be supplied with proper facilities
to keep a record of the material as it is placed into the drying room,
and when it is taken out. An accurate record should be kept of the
temperature every two or three hours, for the different thicknesses
and species of lumber, that he may have some reliable data to guide
him in future cases.

Any man possessing ordinary intelligence can operate dry kilns and
secure satisfactory results, providing he will use good judgment and
follow the basic instructions as outlined below:

1. When cold and before putting into operation, heat the
apparatus slowly until all pipes are hot, then start the fan
or blower, gradually bringing it up to its required speed.

2. See that _all_ steam supply valves are kept wide open,
unless you desire to lengthen the time required to dry the
material.

3. When using exhaust steam, the valve from the header
(which is a separate drip, independent of the trap
connection) must be kept wide open, but must be closed when
live steam is used on that part of the heater.

4. The engines as supplied by the manufacturers are
constructed to operate the fan or blower at a proper speed
with its throttle valve wide open, and with not less than 80
pounds pressure of steam.

5. If the return steam trap does not discharge regularly, it
is important that it be opened and thoroughly cleaned and
the valve seat re-ground.

6. As good air circulation is as essential as the proper
degree of heat, and as the volume of air and its contact
with the material to be dried depends upon the volume
delivered by the fan or blower, it is necessary to maintain
a regular and uniform speed of the engine.

7. Atmospheric openings must always be maintained in the fan
or heater room for fresh air supply.

8.