Boilers use electrodes for ignition and heating up homes. There are two types: ignition electrodes and flame rods that confirm the presence of a flame.
Ignition Electrodes
Ignition electrodes are what create a spark and ignite the fuel source used in boilers. The ignition process works by what’s known as high-voltage flashover. Cleaver Brooks gas pilots use single electrodes that spark with the surrounding tube. Light oil pilots use two arcing electrodes.
Cleaver Brooks electrodes are made with high-quality materials that exhibit a high level of mechanical strength and resistance to electrical and thermal load.
Flame Rods
Flame rods, or ionization probes, are typically positioned next to each other in the boiler’s gas combustion chamber. They work by completing a circuit according to ionization/rectification. When the flame rod’s positive charge attracts fewer flame-produced negative ions than the pilot-tip ground attracts negative ions, a rectified, or one-way, current occurs and indicates a flame.
Electrode Replacement and Maintenance
Cleaver Brooks electrodes should not have cracks in the porcelain insulator. Cracking can lead to ignition-voltage grounding. If cracking becomes evident, the electrode should be replaced. An electrode’s tip should also be inspected for combustion deposits, pitting or wear and cleared with a fine file. Ammonia can also clean soot.
Aftermarket Electrodes for Boilers by Cleaver Brooks
For a wide variety of aftermarket electrodes and parts for Cleaver Brooks boilers that exceed the quality standards set by the original manufacturer, contact Aftermarket Boiler Parts Co. You can also connect them on Facebook.
