De Dietrich 97955658 ignition electrode

This is a De Dietrich ignition electrode, catalogue article 336.946.039, also listed under manufacturer code 97955658. It belongs to the category of ignition and ionisation electrodes. An ignition electrode of this type delivers the spark that lights the fuel-air mixture in the burner. It is positioned in the flame zone and works together with the ignition transformer and the burner control. During the ignition sequence, the control energises the transformer, which produces a high-voltage pulse on the electrode. The spark then ignites the flame. In gas burners, the same or a separate ionisation electrode proves that the flame is present by conducting a small rectified current through it. When selecting a replacement ignition electrode, the key parameters are the electrode length, the bend angle, the insulator diameter, the spark gap, and the mounting flange type. These dimensions must match the original part to ensure the spark occurs at the correct position in the combustion head. The electrode is a consumable item; over time the tip erodes, the ceramic insulator may crack, and soot deposits can build up. A drifting gap caused by erosion or deformation can lengthen ignition time or prevent ignition altogether. Regular inspection during burner servicing is recommended. If the burner includes a pilot burner, the pilot flame may be lit by an ignition electrode and then held by the ionisation electrode. When replacing an ignition electrode, check the condition of the high-voltage cable and the ignition transformer, as a weak spark may indicate a fault elsewhere in the ignition circuit. Use only the correct sealing gasket or washer if the electrode mounts through the burner plate.