Which component of a boiler is primarily responsible for combustion?

The burner is the component of a boiler that is primarily responsible for combustion. It serves as the mechanism where fuel and air are mixed and ignited to produce the necessary heat energy for the boiler to operate. The efficiency and effectiveness of the combustion process largely depend on the design and performance of the burner. A well-designed burner ensures optimal mixing of fuel and air, leading to complete combustion, which is crucial for maximizing energy output and minimizing emissions.

In contrast, the heat exchanger, while important for transferring heat from the combustion gases to the water in the boiler, does not play a direct role in the combustion process itself. The baffle plate is a structural component that helps direct the flow of gases within the boiler system but does not participate in combustion. Similarly, the condenser is a separate component typically found in some boiler systems, tasked with cooling and condensing exhaust gases, but it is not involved in the initiation or maintenance of the combustion reaction. Therefore, the burner stands out as the critical component for combustion within a boiler system.