1.9.2 Improper Burner Functioning
With problems in this category, the burner ignites but exhibits abnormal characteristics such as “popping,” incomplete lighting of the burner, fluctuating flame intensity, and flames “rolling” out of the fryer.
“Popping” indicates delayed ignition. In this condition, the main gas valve is opening but the burner is not immediately lighting. When ignition does take place, the excess gas “explodes” into flame, rather than smoothly igniting.
The primary causes of popping are:
•Incorrect or fluctuating gas pressure
•Misdirected or weak pilot flame
•Burner deflector targets out of alignment or missing
•Clogged burner orifices
•Inadequate
•Clogged vent tube, causing incorrect gas pressure
If popping occurs only during peak operating hours, the problem may be incorrect or fluctuating gas pressure. Verify that the incoming gas pressure (pressure to the gas valve) is in accordance with the appropriate CE or
for Incoming Gas Pressures
Gas | Minimum | Maximum |
| 6" W.C. | 14" W.C. |
Natural | 1.49 kPa | 3.48 kPa |
| 14.93 mbar | 34.84 mbar |
| 11" W.C. | 14" W.C. |
LP | 2.74 kPa | 3.48 kPa |
| 27.37 mbar | 34.84 mbar |
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CE Standard
for Incoming Gas Pressures
| Pressure |
| Regulator |
|
Gas | (mbar)(1) | Orifice Diameter | Pressure | Consumption |
G20 | 20 | 18 x 1,40 mm | 7,5 mbar | 3,00 m3/h |
G25 | 20 - 25 | 18 x 1,40 mm | 10 mbar | 3,50 m3/h |
G31 | 37 - 50 | 18 x 0,86 mm | 20,6 mbar | 2,21 kg/h |
(1) mbar = 10,2 mm H2O
If popping is consistent during all hours of operation, verify that the pilot is properly positioned above the burner orifice and that the pilot pressure is correct. Correct pilot pressure is indicated by a flame 1 to 1½” (25 to38 mm) long. Refer to Section 1.6 for the pilot flame adjustment procedure.
Clogged burner orifices, especially those near the pilot, are also likely causes of delayed ignition. Clogged orifices are indicated by no flame, flames that are
Another cause of popping is an insufficient air supply or drafts that are blowing the pilot flame away from the burner. Check for “negative pressure” conditions in the kitchen area. If air is flowing into the kitchen area, this indicates that more air is being exhausted than is being replenished and the burners may be starved for air.