What is the primary function of a flame scanner in a burner system?

The primary function of a flame scanner in a burner system is to detect the presence of a flame. This device plays a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of the burner system. By confirming that a flame is present during combustion, the flame scanner prevents potentially hazardous situations where fuel could continue to flow without actual ignition, leading to unsafe conditions such as explosions or the buildup of unburned fuel.

Flame scanners utilize various technologies, such as ultraviolet (UV) or infrared (IR) sensors, to monitor the condition of the flame. These sensors are designed to respond to the specific wavelengths emitted by the flame, thereby providing real-time feedback to the control system. If the scanner fails to detect a flame, it can trigger safety shut-off mechanisms that stop the fuel flow, enhancing overall system safety.

While measuring the temperature of the flame, controlling the flow of fuel, or emitting signals for safety checks are important functions within a burner system, they do not encapsulate the primary role of the flame scanner itself, which is fundamentally about flame detection.