CURTAILING HEAT SEEN AS NEEDLESS

As far as can be predicted, heat in the dormitories and Houses this winter will not be cut off early in the evening as it was in 1918, according to George K. Saurwein, superintendent of the Engineering Department. Coal, with which the Cambridge section of the University is heated, and oil for the Medical School burners, are both still readily available.

The University power station and heating plants can maintain a total reserve of 9,000 tons of coal in their bunkers, and 100,000 gallons of oil are on tap at the Medical School, the heating system of which was converted from coal some time ago. The burners, however, are equipped with special cones which may be used if necessary to burn powdered coal in much the same manner as oil.

3,500,000 Gallons of Hot Water

Saurwein's records show that ever 3,500,000 gallons of running water are heated each year for University use, and this figure will rise in the future when the Yard and Houses are filled in summer as well as winter with students and service men.

Though no rationing or severe shortage is troubling the Engineering Department at present, it is apprehensive of rising coats. The price of coal has risen 25 per cent over last year, and as a result conversation of heat is being made whenever possible. In general, most radiators in little-used corridors and entry-ways are being turned off when classes finish for the day.

In spite of nearly perfect insulation of the conduits in the heating tunnels, there is still some heat loss, but air is kept blowing through these tunnels continually and when warmed it is used to help heat certain buildings.

The coal situation now is very much better than in 1918, when fuel rationing was so acute that steam had to be turned off in he buildings at 9 o'clock in the evening, and the use of artificial light was cut to a minimum.