Pilot Gas Preheating for Flare Burner Frost Prevention

The patent applies preliminary action by heating the pilot gas in the supply line before it reaches the inspirator. The gas preheat conduit section is positioned to receive heat from the pilot flame, preheating the pilot gas upstream before mixing occurs. This prevents frost and ice formation at the inspirator by ensuring the gas temperature is already elevated before encountering ambient moisture in cold environments.

The patent converts the harmful cold environment and moisture into a beneficial heating mechanism. The pilot flame, which is necessary for ignition, also serves to heat the gas supply line and prevent frost formation. The heat from the flame that would otherwise be wasted is utilized to maintain gas temperature and prevent harmful ice buildup at the inspirator.

The patent merges the gas supply function with the heating function by positioning the gas preheat conduit section adjacent to the pilot output where the flame is generated. The conduit section is integrated into the existing gas supply infrastructure, combining the transport of pilot gas with the heating process in a single integrated system rather than adding separate heating equipment.

The system applies self-service by using the pilot flame itself to heat the gas supply line. The flame, which is already present and necessary for ignition, automatically provides the heat needed to prevent frost formation. No external heating source or complex control system is required - the system uses its own operational element (the flame) to solve the freezing problem.