Massachusetts Oil Burner License Practice Test

What can cause pulsating oil pump pressure and a pulsating fire?

1. High temperatures in the burner

2. Defective fuel filter

3. Air leaks in the suction line

4. Improper nozzle type

The correct answer is: Air leaks in the suction line

Pulsating oil pump pressure and a pulsating fire can often be attributed to air leaks in the suction line. When there are air leaks, it disrupts the consistent flow of oil into the burner. Air can get mixed with the fuel, leading to an uneven and unstable fuel delivery. This inconsistency results in fluctuations in oil pressure that manifest as pulsations, causing the burner's flame to pulsate. In the context of oil burner operation, it’s crucial that the fuel system is airtight to maintain proper suction and steady fuel delivery. An air leak compromises this integrity, which directly affects the combustion process and results in the described symptoms. Other factors, such as high temperatures in the burner or a defective fuel filter, can lead to different operational issues, but they do not directly relate to the specific phenomenon of pulsating pressure and flame as seen with air leaks. Similarly, using an improper nozzle type may affect the spray pattern and efficiency of combustion but is less likely to cause the specific pressure fluctuations indicated in the question.