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Need your opinion on combustion testing

RayWohlfarth
RayWohlfarth Member Posts: 1,656
I have been trying to help a boiler owner troubleshoot some boilers from afar. When I asked to see their combustion readings, the excess air was really high. During the conversations, I discovered the tech inserted the combustion analyzer probe in the flue pipe, above the draft diverter. I suggested that to get a proper air to fuel reading, the probe should be inserted below the draft diverter. According to the owner, the manufacturer said the tech tested it at the proper place. The manufacturer said that once you set the gas pressure to the proper pressure, that is all that is needed. I would love your thoughts on this
Ray Wohlfarth
Boiler Lessons

Comments

  • Ironman
    Ironman Member Posts: 7,556
    The manufacturer is obviously wrong. You don't take combustion readings where the flue gasses have been diluted with fresh air.
    Bob Boan
    You can choose to do what you want, but you cannot choose the consequences.
    EzzyTSTEVEusaPASuperTechIntplm.
  • Steamhead
    Steamhead Member Posts: 17,387
    Ironman said:

    The manufacturer is obviously wrong. You don't take combustion readings where the flue gasses have been diluted with fresh air.

    This. And, there's no way you can set up a burner by just setting the gas pressure. I've seen where burners were dislodged during shipping and are producing high CO, and you'd never know unless you test.

    If you're not testing with a properly-maintained and certified digital analyzer, and the know-how to use it, you shouldn't be in the business.
    All Steamed Up, Inc.
    Towson, MD, USA
    Steam, Vapor & Hot-Water Heating Specialists
    Oil & Gas Burner Service
    Consulting
    SuperTech
  • RayWohlfarth
    RayWohlfarth Member Posts: 1,656
    @Ironman I know Couldn't believe they said that. I once saw a sooted boiler the readings above the draft diverter were tolerable.
    @Steamhead Right. I always check before the dilution air
    Thanks gentlemen
    Ray Wohlfarth
    Boiler Lessons