Oil burner nozzles come in various spray angles and spray rates which determine the efficiency of an oil burner. All oil burners are designed to work with specific groups of nozzles, and it’s critical that you consult the burners’ installation manual to determine what spray angle and GPH is required for the proper firing of the oil burner.
Types of Oil Burner Nozzles
The oil burner nozzle plays a vital role in atomizing the oil in the combustion chamber. Nozzles vary by GPH flow rate, spray angle, and cone type (hollow or solid). This information on common nozzle types and terms can help you make the most informed selection.
- Hollow cone nozzles (Type A) can be used in burners with a hollow air pattern as well as in small burners (those firing @ 1.0 gph and under), regardless of air pattern. Type A nozzles produce a spray which delivers fine droplets outside the periphery of the main spray cone. These fine droplets greatly enhance ignition and create a stable flame for use with flame retention burners. Under adverse conditions, hollow cone nozzles generally have more stable spray angles and patterns than solid cone nozzles with the same flow rate. This is an important advantage in fractional gallon nozzles as high-viscosity fuel may cause a reduction in spray angle and an increase in droplet size.
- Solid cone nozzles (Type B) produce a spray which distributes droplets fairly uniformly throughout the complete pattern. However, this spray pattern becomes progressively more hollow at high flow rates, particularly above 8.0 gph. Type B nozzles can be used in larger burners (those firing above 2.0 or 3.0 gph) to provide smoother ignition, as well as where the air pattern of the burner is heavy in the center or where long fires are required.
- Semi-solid nozzles (Type W) can frequently be used in place of either a hollow or solid cone nozzle firing at rates between 0.40 and 8.0 gph, regardless of the burner’s air pattern. Nozzles with lower flow rates tend to be more hollow, while higher flow rate nozzles tend to be more solid.
- Atomizing nozzles are available in a wide range of flow rates, all but eliminating the need for specially calibrated nozzles. For example, between 1.0 gph and 2.0 gph, there are seven different flow rates available. Generally, with hot water and warm air heat, the smallest firing rate that will adequately heat the house on the coldest day is the proper size to use and the most economical. Short on-cycles result in low efficiency. Another guideline is to select the flow rate that provides a reasonable stack temperature regardless of the connected load. (According to the New England Fuel Institute, aim for a stack temperature of 400°F or lower on matched packaged units, or 500°F or lower on conversion burners.) If the boiler or furnace is undersized for the load, it may be necessary to fire for the load and ignore the efficiency.
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Once you’ve consulted your burners’ installation manual, check out Zoro’s selection of oil burner parts to select the right oil burner nozzle.
Product Compliance and Suitability
The product statements contained in this guide are intended for general informational purposes only. Such product statements do not constitute a product recommendation or representation as to the appropriateness, accuracy, completeness, correctness or currentness of the information provided. Information provided in this guide does not replace the use by you of any manufacturer instructions, technical product manual, or other professional resource or adviser available to you. Always read, understand and follow all manufacturer instructions.