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Which design challenge limited the use of Newcomen's steam engine in early 18th century mining operations?

A)High fuel consumption per cycle
B)Excessive vibrations damaged mine shafts
C)Frequent boiler explosions from pressure
D)Inability to pump water from great depths

💡 Explanation

When the cylinder cooled via water injection after each power stroke, energy was lost, causing high fuel use because latent heat of vaporization was significant, reducing engine efficiency. Therefore, high fuel consumption was the limitation, rather than vibration, explosions, or depth, which were mitigated by robust construction, safety valves, and pump designs.

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