1-12
1.8.2 Improper
Burner
Functioning
Fluctuating flame intensity
is normally caused by improper or fluctuating incoming gas pressure,
but may also be the result of variations in the kitchen atmosphere. Variation in the kitchen
atmosphere is usually caused by air conditioning and/or ventilation units starting and stopping.
Changes in airflow patterns can also affect flame intensity. If the incoming gas pressure is correct
and stable, check for variations in the kitchen atmosphere.
Flames "rolling" out of the fryer
are usually an indication of negative pressure in the kitchen. Air
is being sucked out of the fryer enclosure and the flames are literally following the air. If negative
pressure is not the cause, check for high burner-manifold gas pressure. An obstructed flue, which
prevents the fryer from properly exhausting, may also be the cause.
An
excessively noisy burner
, especially with
flames visible above the flue opening
, may indicate
that the burner gas pressure is too high, the gas valve vent tube is blocked, or the tube diffusers are
damaged or worn out. If the gas pressure is correct, the vent tube is unobstructed, and the diffusers
are in good condition, the gas valve regulator is probably defective.
Occasionally a burner may appear to be operating correctly, but the fryer has a
slow recovery rate
(the length of time required for the fryer to increase the oil temperature from 275ºF to 325ºF (135ºC
to 163ºC). The primary causes of this are low burner manifold pressure and/or misaligned burners.
If both of these causes are ruled out, the probable cause is a gas valve regulator that is out of
adjustment. Refer to the
Check Burner Manifold Pressure
procedure in section 1.5.
1.8.3 Improper
Temperature
Control
(i.e., failure to control at set point)
Temperature control is a function of several interrelated components, each of which must operate
correctly. The principle component, however, is the thermostat.
The thermostat must be checked periodically to ensure that it is in calibration. Refer to Calibrating
the Operating Thermostat in section 1.4 for the procedure.
If the thermostat is properly calibrated, the probable causes are damage to the thermostat bulb,
kinking of the capillary tube, and broken or loose wiring. Inspect the thermostat components for
visible damage.
If there are dents in the bulb, if the capillary is kinked, or if there is obvious damage to the leads, the
thermostat should be replaced.
If there is no obvious damage to the thermostat, turn off the gas valve and allow the cooking oil to
cool to at least 15 degrees below the thermostat setting. Disconnect the thermostat leads from the
gas valve and check for continuity. If the thermostat fails the continuity check, it must be replaced.
