Summary

To prevent nuisance burner lockouts and ensure combustion stability, compression fittings must not be used in fuel system piping. These fittings are prone to vacuum leaks that introduce air into the fuel line. All fuel system connections should utilize flare fittings to ensure a high-integrity, airtight seal.

Technical Standards

The "No Compression" Rule

• Issue: Compression fittings are designed for positive pressure; under the vacuum pull of an oil pump, they often fail to maintain a seal, allowing air to enter the stream.

• Result: Air bubbles lead to erratic flame patterns, pump cavitation, and frequent system lockouts.

• Solution: Replace all compression points with 45-degree flare fittings.

Installation Protocols

For New System Installations

1. Oil Filter: Install a high-efficiency filter at the tank or burner inlet.

2. De-Aeration: Integrate a Tigerloop® De-aerator. This removes any air bound in the oil before it reaches the burner nozzle.

3. Mechanical Joints: Use only flare fittings for all copper-to-component connections.

For Existing System Maintenance

1. Retrofit: Identify and replace any existing compression fittings with flare equivalents.

2. Augmentation: Install a Beckett Tigerloop to mitigate air ingress from other potential sources (e.g., aging tank valves or suction line pinholes).

The Tigerloop Advantage

Adding a de-aerator guarantees that the burner receives a "solid" column of oil. By removing air from the suction line and recirculating unused oil, the Tigerloop ensures:

• Pre-heated oil delivery for better atomization.

• Elimination of the need for a return line to the tank.

• Reduced strain on the fuel pump.