Which type of pump is typically utilized in fuel oil systems to deliver oil to the burner?

The positive displacement gear pump is commonly used in fuel oil systems to deliver oil to the burner due to its ability to handle viscous fluids effectively and maintain a consistent flow rate under varying conditions. This type of pump operates by trapping a volume of fluid between gears or other rotating elements, then forcing that fluid out through the discharge port.

One of the key advantages of gear pumps in fuel oil applications is their capability to create a high pressure, which is necessary for delivering oil from storage tanks to the burner, especially in systems where the oil needs to be precisely metered and maintained at the proper pressure for efficient combustion. Additionally, positive displacement pumps are excellent for handling changes in viscosity that may occur with temperature fluctuations, ensuring reliable performance in different operational scenarios.

In contrast, centrifugal pumps are generally better suited for low-viscosity fluids and are less effective in applications involving high-pressure requirements or thicker liquids like fuel oil. Diaphragm pumps and piston pumps, while useful for certain applications, typically don't provide the same level of flow consistency and pressure handling required for most fuel oil delivery systems in heating applications. Thus, the positive displacement gear pump stands out as the ideal choice for this specific purpose.