Mining Publication: Ringelmann Smoke Chart

The Ringelmann Smoke Chart fulfills an important need in smoke abatement work and in certain problems in the combustion of fuels. A knowledge of its history and method of preparation is, therefore, of interest to many. Since instructions on its use are not shown on the recent edition of the chart, those included in this revision of the previous Bureau of Mines publication now are a necessary complement to the chart. More detail regarding the use of the chart is included than was given in the earlier version. The Ringelmann Chart is used as a device for determining whether emissions of smoke are within limits or standards of permissibility (statutes and ordinances) established and expressed with reference to the chart. It is widely used by law enforcement or compliance officers in jurisdictions that have adopted standards based upon the chart.