The definable measure of burner performance and efficiency resides within burner construction and the ability to generate high mixing pressure. This results in emissions control with lower excess oxygen (O2) values across a higher turndown ratio. The amount of pressure generated in the burner envelope — the space between the fan discharge and the burner mixing head diffuser — is how this is achieved; performance and safety can then be validated by determining the combustion changeover point.
In the evolution of power burner design, there have been many advancements. From the early days of low-speed burner motors turning at 1,725 rpm with oversized blower wheels to high-speed, high-efficiency blower motors equipped with integrated or remote-mounted frequency converters (VFD’s). The industry and burner performance have come a long way — from on/off burner sequencing to intricate, complex linkages for modulation to digital parallel positioning fuel-air ratio controls. Burners once constructed and fabricated from sheet metal are now created using precision cast aluminum burner bodies.