The Unifire eHEnergizer is a High Energy Ignition Exciter specifically designed for the safe and reliable ignition of pilots and small gas-fired burners (less than 400,000 BTU/hr). It is primarily used in process heaters, boilers, and other combustion equipment commonly found in the hydrocarbon processing industry.
Function Description:
The eHEnergizer utilizes a capacitor discharge circuit to deliver high-energy sparks to an igniter tip. This design ensures robust ignition even in challenging environments. The device supplies up to 4 Joules of energy per spark at a rate of 2 to 3 sparks per second. This energy level and sparking frequency are optimized to maximize the lifespan of the igniter tip.
The exciter operates when an input voltage is applied to its power supply terminals, typically from an external control system like a Burner Management System (BMS). Upon receiving power, a red LED illuminates, indicating that the sparking circuit has begun charging. The first spark occurs approximately two seconds after the LED turns on, with subsequent sparks generated at a rate of up to three per second. This spark interval is designed to meet the trial for ignition requirements of governing codes and standards, such as CSA B149.3 and NFPA 85, which often specify ignition trial periods ranging from 5 to 15 seconds.
After the trial for ignition period, power can typically be removed from the eHEnergizer. A BMS can automate this process once the flame is proven. The unit incorporates an internal circuit that discharges any accumulated charge in the capacitors when power is removed, ensuring the unit is safe to handle. However, it is important to note that discharge to levels below 30VDC may take up to 4 minutes after power-off.
The igniter tip, connected to the eHEnergizer via an ignition lead, generates the spark necessary to ignite the fuel-air mixture in the combustion zone. Due to the high energy output of the capacitive discharge, the spark generated at the tip can operate effectively even when submerged in water, dirt, refractory, or other common media found in furnaces or boilers.
The eHEnergizer is a critical component for reliable ignition. System integrators are responsible for ensuring that all applicable codes and standards are adhered to for the complete BMS design to guarantee the safe operation of the fired appliance.
Important Technical Specifications:
The eHEnergizer is available in two models:
- PHE-120: Operates at 120 VAC.
- PHE-24: Operates at 24 VDC.
Key specifications for both models are as follows:
| Specification |
PHE-24 |
PHE-120 |
| Power Supply |
24VDC ± 20% |
120VAC 50/60Hz |
| Peak Current |
2A |
1.7A |
| Avg Current |
700mA |
500mA |
| Mass (electronic module only) |
3lb |
3lb |
| Min Operating Temperature |
-45°C |
-45°C |
| Max Operating Temperature |
75°C |
75°C |
| Recommended Fusing |
3A slow blow |
2A slow blow |
| Approvals |
CSA 22.2 #199, ANSI Z21.20 |
CSA 22.2 #199, ANSI Z21.20 |
- The PHE-24 provides reliable ignition down to 19V.
- The PHE-24 draws an average of approximately 2A for 150ms when recharging capacitors after a spark. Once fully charged, the current draw is negligible (<1mA).
- The PHE-120 draws an average of approximately 1.7A for 150ms when recharging capacitors after a spark. Once fully charged, the current draw is negligible (<500mA).
- The mass specification refers to the electronic module only, not including the explosion-proof enclosure.
Usage Features:
- Installation: The eHEnergizer is typically installed in an explosion-proof enclosure, making it suitable for Class I Zone 1 hazardous areas. Field wiring must pass through a ¾" Female NPT connection point on the base of the enclosure. For hazardous areas, a seal fitting (EYS or similar) must be provided within 18 inches of the enclosure connection point.
- Wiring:
- For low voltage power supply signal wiring, #14 multi-strand copper RW90 or similar wire is recommended.
- A #14 AWG ground wire should be connected to the "eHEnergizer" Ground (G) terminal.
- A 3A slow blow fuse is required for the PHE-24 power supply circuit, and a 2A slow blow fuse for the PHE-120 power supply circuit.
- The ignition cable must be rated for a minimum of 600VAC and 90C, and should be #14 or #12 multi-strand copper wire. The high voltage wire connects to the "IGN" terminal on the eHEnergizer.
- A ground wire is prewired in pre-assembled enclosures from the enclosure body to the eHEnergizer's high voltage "G" terminal, providing a common ground path from the pipe/tube to the eHEnergizer.
- The resistance of the ground path between the outside shell of the igniter tip and the high side "G" terminal of the eHEnergizer must be less than 0.2Ω.
- If using a direct mount assembly, ensure the SST pipe/tube is properly fastened to the adaptor and enclosure without the use of Teflon tape or sealing compound, which could impede the ground path.
- Remote Field Wiring: The eHEnergizer can be remotely mounted up to 1000ft from the igniter tip, which is useful when mounting in a panel outside a hazardous area. For longer distances, Unifire should be contacted.
- Igniter Tip Compatibility: The eHEnergizer models are compatible with a variety of igniter tips. Optimized igniter tips (part numbers P-10000000-00 & P-10000000-01) are available from Unifire, and it is strongly advised to contact sales@unifire.ca to verify compatibility with existing igniter tips. If the eHEnergizer is received as part of a pilot assembly, the igniter tip will come pre-wired to the Ignition (IGN) and burner ground (G) terminals of the controller. The tip is typically mounted onto a 1/8” Sch 40 304 SS pipe or 3/8" 0.035” 316 SS tubing and inserted into or adjacent to the pilot mixing tube via an adapter. The ignition wire passes through the pipe/tube, which provides mechanical protection and a return path for the igniter current.
Maintenance Features:
- No User Serviceable Parts: The eHEnergizer contains no user-serviceable parts. Disassembly by the end-user is strictly prohibited due to the presence of a shock hazard.
- Troubleshooting: The manual provides a troubleshooting guide to help identify the root cause of common problems:
- Red LED OFF: Indicates a power supply failure. Remedial action involves checking and reconnecting power.
- No Spark:
- Ground failure: Check the ground connection between the igniter tip and the eHEnergizer's high side "G" terminal; resistance must be less than 0.2Ω.
- High Voltage Wire Connection Failed: Check the integrity of the high voltage wire connection to the "IGN" terminal on the eHEnergizer and to the igniter tip.
- Igniter Tip Resistance: Verify that the igniter tip resistance is at least 1MΩ but not infinite (which would indicate material breakdown).
- Pilot Does Not Light:
- Lean/Rich Fuel-Air Mixture: Check for sufficient fuel supply for ignition with a close to stoichiometric mixture. Also, check for debris/obstructions in the air register/mixer of the pilot burner.
- High/Low Fuel Pressure: Verify that the fuel supply pressure is within the requirements of the pilot burner.
- Fuel Quality: "Dirty" fuel (e.g., heavily laden with liquids) can be difficult to ignite.
- Tip Location: Ensure the igniter tip is located within the fuel/air mixture. The spark occurs across the surface of the tip, so it may not necessarily "jump" towards the fuel/air if not properly positioned.
- Nitrogen in Lines: On a first start, residual nitrogen from commissioning in the lines can be common. Repeated attempts may be needed to purge the lines.
- Support: For assistance with installation, operation, and fault finding, users should contact Unifire support at support@unifire.ca. When communicating, include the serial number from the eHEnergizer label for quicker assistance.
- Warranty: Unifire provides a limited product warranty covering defects in workmanship and materials for twelve (12) months from the date of purchase, provided the product is installed and used according to instructions. The warranty is limited to the cost of parts for repair or exchange of the defective product. It does not cover costs for removal, transportation, or reinstallation. The warranty is void if damage is due to negligence, accident, fire, Act of God, abuse, misuse, unauthorized modifications, or non-compliance with Unifire instructions and local codes.
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