The nozzle is the component primarily responsible for atomizing oil in a gun-type burner. When oil is pumped from the fuel tank through the burner, it enters the nozzle at a specific pressure. The nozzle is designed with a specific orifice size and shape that creates a high-velocity jet of oil as it exits. This process breaks the oil into fine droplets, also known as atomization.
Proper atomization is crucial for efficient combustion as it allows for a more complete mix with air, resulting in a cleaner burn with maximized heat output and reduced emissions. If the oil is not sufficiently atomized, it can lead to incomplete combustion, increasing soot production and reducing system efficiency.
The other components, while important for the overall operation of a burner, do not serve the primary function of atomizing oil. The fuel pump delivers the oil to the nozzle under pressure, the air blower provides the necessary air for combustion, and the combustion chamber is where the actual burning occurs. However, it is the nozzle that directly transforms the liquid oil into a fine mist, enabling the combustion process to take place efficiently.