Which part of an oil burner acts like a spark plug during ignition?

The correct answer is the electrode, which plays a crucial role in the ignition process of an oil burner. When the oil burner is starting up, the electrode generates a spark that ignites the aerosolized oil mist that has been atomized by the burner. This ignition is essential for creating the combustion process and maintaining the burner’s operation.

The electrode functions similarly to a spark plug in that it produces the necessary electrical discharge to ignite fuel. Its positioning and condition are vital, as any issues with the electrode can lead to ignition failures, resulting in incomplete combustion or operational inefficiencies.

In comparison, the other components, such as the injector, burner head, and fan motor, serve different functions in the burning process. The injector is responsible for delivering the oil to the burner in the correct form, while the burner head is designed to mix the air and oil for optimal combustion. The fan motor helps in supplying the necessary air for combustion but does not create the spark needed for ignition. Thus, the electrode is specifically the part that acts like a spark plug during the ignition phase.