A standard 28-kW oil-field well heater was modified for use as an in situ coal igniter. This igniter is capable of heating a 0.0189 std m/sup 3//s (40 scfm) injection air flow from 10/sup 0/C (50/sup 0/F) to 951/sup 0/C (1744/sup 0/F). The heated air then ignites the coal without requiring direct heater contact with the coal. Thermal design calculations were used as a basis for the heater modifications.