What is the Spark From an Oil Burner Igniter Coil?

  • Thread starter Rockplourde
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Spark
In summary, the conversation discusses the phenomenon of a large spark being produced when stepping up voltage from 110 volts to 10,000 volts in a step-up transformer. The question is raised as to whether this spark is caused by a large number of electrons jumping the gap due to the high voltage, and if so, why it does not register as a high current. It is suggested that the air in the gap may have a high resistance, preventing the flow of electrons.
  • #1
Rockplourde
5
0
When I take a step-up transformer say from the igniter coil from an oil burner and step up the voltage from 110 volts to 10,000 volts with just a very small fraction of an amp in the secondary why is it I get a huge spark. Is the spark not a large collection of electrons jumping the gap because of the high voltage applied to them? And if so that many electrons flowing across the gap should register as a high current at that space in time, yet it does not. If this is not electron flow, what is it?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Rockplourde said:
And if so that many electrons flowing across the gap should register as a high current
Except for the air in the gap is high resistance...
 
  • Like
Likes davenn

1. What is an oil burner igniter coil?

An oil burner igniter coil is a component in an oil burning furnace that generates a high voltage spark to ignite the fuel and start the combustion process. It is typically made of a conductive material, such as copper or steel, and is connected to a power source.

2. How does the spark from an oil burner igniter coil work?

The igniter coil works by creating a high voltage electrical arc between two electrodes. This spark is strong enough to ignite the fuel and start the combustion process. The coil is powered by a transformer, which steps up the voltage from the power source to create the spark.

3. What causes an oil burner igniter coil to fail?

The most common cause of failure for an oil burner igniter coil is wear and tear over time. As the coil is constantly generating high voltage sparks, it can become worn or damaged and eventually fail. Other factors that can contribute to failure include power surges, moisture, and dirt or debris buildup on the electrodes.

4. How can the spark from an oil burner igniter coil be tested?

The spark from an oil burner igniter coil can be tested using a multimeter. The multimeter should be set to measure voltage and the electrodes of the coil should be touched with the probes. A reading of at least 10,000 volts indicates that the coil is functioning properly. If there is no spark or a low voltage reading, the coil may need to be replaced.

5. Can an oil burner igniter coil be replaced by a non-professional?

It is not recommended for non-professionals to replace an oil burner igniter coil. The coil is a vital component of the furnace and its replacement requires proper knowledge and tools. It is best to consult a licensed HVAC technician for any repairs or replacements involving the igniter coil.

Similar threads

High voltage coil discharge polarity for vehicle spark plugs
    • Electrical Engineering
Replies
7
Views
2K
Investigating Ignition Sparks in Cars with Waste Spark Management
    • Other Physics Topics
Replies
18
Views
3K
Automotive Points ignition output voltage and length?
    • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
17
Views
3K
How to optimize spark gap Tesla coils
    • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
1K
How to optimize spark gap Tesla coils?
    • Electrical Engineering
Replies
6
Views
3K
Points ignition output voltage and length?
    • New Member Introductions
Replies
2
Views
227
I tried building an induction coil
    • Electrical Engineering
Replies
34
Views
2K
"Ground" and "Center Tapped" Power Transformer Secondary in guitar amp
    • Electrical Engineering
Replies
6
Views
2K
How Can I Improve My Spark Gap Switch for High-Speed Photography?
    • Other Physics Topics
Replies
4
Views
5K
Creating Sparks Through Air - Adrian's Physics Experiment
    • Other Physics Topics
Replies
6
Views
4K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top