What does ‘purging’ refer to in oil burner operations?

Purging in oil burner operations specifically refers to the process of removing unburned oil and other combustible gases from the combustion chamber before ignition takes place. This step is crucial because it ensures that there is no accumulation of flammable materials that could cause explosive conditions when the burner is ignited. By clearing the combustion chamber of these residues, purging helps to provide a safe environment for combustion, facilitating efficient burning of the oil and minimizing the chances of excess smoke or carbon build-up.

Effective purging is essential for proper oil burner operation, as it promotes a clean and stable combustion process, which in turn enhances the overall efficiency and longevity of the equipment. This process typically involves running air or a mixture of air and oil through the combustion chamber to clear it before the burner is restarted.