What does an oil burner do?

An oil burner is a device that is used in heating systems to burn oil for the purpose of generating heat. It is commonly found in homes, businesses, and industrial settings where oil is a preferred or available fuel source. The primary function of an oil burner is to convert liquid fuel (typically heating oil) into a fine spray or mist and then ignite it, producing a controlled flame that generates heat.

Here’s a basic overview of how an oil burner works:

1. Fuel Supply: Heating oil is stored in a tank and pumped to the burner unit when heat is needed.
2. Combustion Air: The burner draws in combustion air from the surrounding environment. This air is mixed with the atomized oil to support combustion.
3. Atomization: The oil is atomized or broken down into tiny droplets using a nozzle or similar mechanism. This creates a fine mist that can mix effectively with the combustion air.
4. Ignition: The mist of oil and air is ignited by an ignition system within the burner. This starts the combustion process.
5. Flame Control: Once ignited, the flame is carefully controlled to maintain a stable and efficient combustion process. This control is often achieved through a combination of fuel and air adjustments.
6. Heat Generation: The controlled combustion produces a hot flame that heats up a heat exchanger. The heat exchanger transfers the heat to the air or water circulating in the heating system.
7. Exhaust: The byproducts of combustion, including carbon dioxide and water vapor, are expelled through the exhaust system.

Oil burners are commonly used in furnaces, boilers, and water heaters. They are versatile and can be used for both residential and commercial heating applications. Regular maintenance is important to ensure proper functioning and efficiency, including cleaning the burner, checking the fuel supply, and inspecting the ignition system. Additionally, safety features are often incorporated to shut down the burner in case of malfunctions or unsafe conditions.