Japanese challenge in coal-combustion technology

Japan's rapid entrance into coal technology has not only improved on US technology, but has taken the initiative in commercial progress. A visit to several Japanese coal-fired facilities showed that they have integrated the best design details without developing new technology and can soon challenge the US as a world supplier. Japan's willingness to evaluate coal-technology options on the basis of value rather than tradition and the close cooperation between manufacturers and utilities increases the potential for developing new improvements. (DCK)