Acs igniters

Types of ACS Igniters

Designed for maintaining fuel-efficient and safe combustion in boilers, arc furnace igniters have varied types and working functionalities. Go through some of their types below:

• Mica based

  Mica-based igniters are often used to start or re-ignite boilers that have ACS igniter assemblies with a separate igniter. The kerosene-fed igniter will operate without electrical power after being started. However, it may require electrical input for priming, which may be 10-15 minutes prior to running.

• Mica based with Fail-safe

  Mica based with fail safe igniters function just like the mica-based igniters. However, the fail-safe mechanism helps to avoid igniter failure by allowing the boiler to shut down if the igniter stops working.

• Coil Type Electrode Igniter Without UV Detector

  Without the need for UV detection capability, coil-type AC igniters can be used to ignite fuel oil in combustion chambers or other equipment. They may be more economical than igniters with UV detection.

• Coil Type Electrodes with UV Detectors

  Coil type electrode AC UV detectors help to monitor the operation of the igniter during combustion. If the igniter flame goes out, the UV detector will sense this and send a signal to shut down the equipment or take other designated actions. Igniters with UV detectors can provide an added safety feature by detecting potential problems immediately.

• The Spark Electrode Igniter

  Spark electrode igniters create a spark to ignite gas or fuel oil. They offer a flame starting method and may be more responsive than other igniter types.

  Spark electrode igniters have some advantages over traditional methods, such as faster lighting and less fuel usage. They could be designed with UV detection to improve safety and response better to customer needs.

Specification and maintenance of ACS igniters

Specifications

• Cross reference:

  Cross-reference igniter numbers are often found in igniter charts. They may be a useful tool when trying to match up with different models of igniters. If the igniter's form, fit, or function is not the same, the application may not work.

• Size:

  An igniter needs to fit into its specified application. There may be some slight tolerances in length, diameter, or pin spacing that an igniter manufacturer will specify.

• Material:

  The material used in the construction of the igniter often relates to its application. The ceramic and silicon dioxide combination often has a resistance range from 1 to 5 megaohms. A higher resistance level may lead to a greater risk of igniter failure from pre-ignition during engine cranking. Other materials include the core, which can be made of zirconia or alumina.Several metals and alloys can be used to build igniter electrodes, including nickel, cobalt, copper, titanium, tungsten, chromium, and zirconium.

• Voltage:

  Different types of igniters are designed to work at various voltages. For example, a spark plug ACS igniter operates at 10,000 to 20,000 volts.

Maintenance requirements

A regular maintenance program will lengthen the life of an ignitor and reduce the total cost of ownership. Some key parts of a maintenance program include:

• Cleaning the ignitor is very important. While chemical cleaning of a furnace is often standard practice, cleaning of the ignitor itself isn't. It's better that the ignitor remains within the furnace and is only cleaned with a vacuum while it's hot or once a year. Fumes from burning fuel, such as hydrogen, can coat the ignitor.
• The heating and cooling rates of an application should be monitored. If an over- or under-heating situation occurs, this could lead to excessive wear and tear on the ignitor. Adjustments to the equipment should be made to ensure it runs optimally.
• Coil replacement should occur based on plant experience. If the ignitor does fail while in operation, a provision for a spare ignition source should be present. An investigation into the cause of the ignition failure should take place immediately.
• Log and analyze the reheating times of the furnace.
• Maintain a spare igniter inventory. If there have been frequent failures of the igniter, note the coil that failed. The coil counts should determine the required number of coils in the spare inventory.
• Please provide a high-quality picture of the igniter whenever possible, as this is the easiest way to identify it and record its condition during review.
• When storing an igniter, do not exceed the maximum storage temperature and keep it away from any moisture.

Applications of ACS igniters

Due to their important role in starting and ensuring the continuous burning of fuel in boilers, industrial furnace igniters, and gas burners, ACS igniters have a wide range of application scenarios. In addition to being useful for industries that rely heavily on high fuel combustion, such as metallurgy, petrochemistry, power generation, construction, and food processing, igniters also find application in other specialized fields where precise control of combustion is required. Below are some other possible application scenarios for an igniter gimbal that may be found.

• Glass production: In the glass industry, igniters are used to start and maintain combustion in glass melting furnaces. Proper ignition ensures stable heat supply for glass melting and minimizes defects in glass products.
• Ceramic firing: Igniters play a crucial role in ceramic kilns by igniting and sustaining the combustion of fuel. This enables precise temperature control during the firing process, resulting in quality ceramic products.
• Cement production: Igniters are utilized in cement rotary kilns to initiate and maintain the combustion of fuel for cement production. Consistent ignition ensures efficient fuel utilization and stable operation of the kiln.
• Food processing: Certain food processing industries may use ACS igniters in industrial ovens or burners for food processing. They help ensure stable and safe combustion during food processing operations.
• Textile industry: The textile industry may employ igniters in equipment such as dryers or incinerators that require high-temperature combustion. Igniters ensure the stability and safety of combustion in textile production and disposal processes.
• Combined heat and power (CHP) systems: CHP systems that generate both electricity and heat from a single fuel source may use igniters to initiate combustion in internal combustion engines or gas turbines. This allows for efficient energy conversion and utilization of the fuel.
• Marine industry: Igniters are used in the marine industry in ship engines or incinerators to ensure proper combustion of fuel at sea. Reliable ignition is essential for the operation and safety of marine equipment.

How to Choose AC igniters

When buying an AC burner igniter, checking its compatibility with specific furnace models is crucial. Conduct a thorough research and focus on the furnace manufacturers and models that have designated the required igniter type. Furthermore, consider purchasing igniters with universal compatibility since they can fit into various furnace models.

Furnace ignitors are available in different sizes and shapes. When buying a replacement, ensure that its size and shape matches the old ignitor precisely. Additionally, opt for AC igniters renowned for their durability and longevity. Select those constructed using high-quality materials like ceramic and silicon carbide that have resistance to rapid temperature changes.

Consider an AC igniter that starts the furnace with minimal energy consumption. Additionally, if operating a commercial or industrial space, it would be best to consider an application-specific igniter. Choosing the right igniter also depends on whether there is room for the flame to ignite. Applications like gas furnaces require flame propagation space; thus, a spark igniter would be ideal.

Users who frequently start their ACs or don’t stay near them to restart them after they go off at night would prefer a stay lit furnace igniter. Furthermore, wireless igniters are preferable to those that use electricity. Before making an order, explore the supplier’s catalog. Check the details of each igniter listed and any available discounts for bulk orders. Solicit comments from other previous buyers, especially those who have purchased in bulk. Find out if the supplier is prompt during delivery and if the igniters are of the right quality. Also, ensure that they can deliver to the desired destination.

Q&A

Q: How long do AC igniters usually last?

A: Igniters for the furnace typically last between 1.5 and 2 years. However, this can vary depending on use and wear.

Q: What happens when the AC igniter is broken?

A: A broken igniter means no gas will burn in the furnace, leaving the house without heat.

Q: Can homeowners force the AC gas valve to open?

A: Users should not attempt to do so, as this can cause an explosion or a fire hazard.

Q: Why are AC igniters so expensive?

A: The cost of the igniter is relatively high because, when it breaks, the entire furnace must be replaced. This gives manufacturers the leeway to charge a higher price for the igniter.