Flame failure detection and modern boilers

Abstract

The safe operation of fossil-fuel-fired boilers is dependent to a large extent on the stability of the combustion process. Flame instability can be both inefficient and pollutant forming. but in extreme cases flame extinction can occur. Unless immediate action is taken in such circumstances, large quantities of unburnt fuel can be admitted to the combustion chamber and subsequently re-ignite explosively with serious consequences to both personnel and equipment. To eliminate such potentially dangerous situations. a need has been identified for reliable monitors capable of rapidly detecting the loss of flame. This review shows how advances in combustion systems have necessitated the continuing development of improved methods of flame failure detection to maintain acceptable performance characteristics.