High-Energy Ignition (HEI) System
Ignition Without Limits: High-Energy Reliability, Every Time Unyielding Performance. Instant Ignition. Maximum Uptime.
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High-current spark ignition for heavy and contaminated fuels
Our High-Energy Ignition (HEI) systems set the benchmark for dependable industrial ignition. Using advanced capacitor-discharge technology, each unit delivers a powerful, high-current spark that cuts through contaminants, moisture, and harsh conditions. Whether for gaseous, liquid, or heavy, contaminated fuels, HEI ensures fast, repeatable ignition, keeping operations compliant, safe, and running without interruption.
Spark Energy
Up to 30 J
Technology
Capacitor discharge
Fuel Compatibility
Gas, liquid, heavy fuels
Operation
High-frequency sparking
What is a High-Energy Ignition System?
A high-energy ignition (HEI) system uses capacitor-discharge technology to deliver a powerful, high-current spark at the ignition electrode, providing reliable light-off for gaseous, liquid, and heavy contaminated fuels that would foul or extinguish lower-energy ignition sources.
How it works
Electrical energy stored in a capacitor bank discharges through the ignition electrode in rapid, high-frequency pulses, each one carrying enough energy to ignite through surface contamination at the electrode.
Electrical energy is stored in a capacitor bank ahead of each discharge cycle.
The capacitor discharges through the ignition electrode in rapid pulses carrying up to 30 J of spark energy, burning through surface contamination, moisture films, and carbon deposits that would otherwise block ignition.
The spark recurs at high frequency, fast enough to catch the fuel-air mixture even as flow or composition fluctuates.
Key Benefits
Up to 30 J spark energy for reliable ignition of even heavy or contaminated fuels.
High-frequency sparking delivers near-instant light-off under any process condition.
Handles gas, liquid, or atomized heavy fuels with equal performance and reliability.
Electronics resist fouling and wear, reducing cleaning and replacement needs.
Weather-sealed, rugged construction withstands heat, vibration, and corrosive atmospheres.
Projects That Push Boundaries
Fully integrated with plant DCS and safety interlocks for reliable pilot lighting in any weather.
The CRA Edge
Over 30 years designing flare ignition systems that meet the highest standards of safety and reliability.
Precision combustion metering and robust design ensure consistent ignition in the harshest environments.
Installed in 25+ countries, backed by responsive technical assistance and on-site service.
Each HEI rig is tailored to site-specific fuel composition, flare setup, and operational needs.
Applications
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a high-energy ignition (HEI) system?
A high-energy ignition system uses capacitor-discharge technology to deliver a powerful, high-current spark, up to 30 J of spark energy in CRA's design, capable of igniting gas, liquid, or heavy contaminated fuels that a conventional low-energy igniter can struggle with. The spark is engineered to cut through moisture and fouling contaminants rather than degrade in harsh conditions.
When is HEI preferred over a high voltage or piezoelectric ignition system?
HEI is typically specified where fuel is heavy, contaminated, or difficult to ignite, or where repeatable, high-frequency sparking is needed regardless of process condition, since its capacitor-discharge design resists fouling better than a standard spark gap. High voltage ignition is more commonly used where the pilot electrode sits at a long distance or elevation, and piezoelectric systems are chosen for power-independent, manual, or backup ignition rather than continuous automated duty.
What fuels and conditions can an HEI system handle?
CRA's HEI systems are rated for gaseous, liquid, and atomized heavy fuels with equal reliability, including low-calorific and difficult-to-ignite gases. Units are weather-sealed and built to withstand heat, vibration, and corrosive atmospheres for continuous industrial service.
What maintenance does an HEI system need?
HEI electronics are designed to resist fouling and wear, which reduces the frequency of cleaning and component replacement compared to lower-energy ignition methods. CRA's HEI systems are also custom-tailored to the site's fuel composition and flare setup, which reduces mismatched ignition performance that would otherwise drive unplanned maintenance.
What industries and applications use HEI systems?
Common applications include heavy oil and viscous fuel ignition, flare pilots for rapid response and zero-flaring operation, process burners, incinerators and reformers, and emergency, upset, or backup ignition duty. CRA has supplied HEI systems across refineries, chemical plants, and waste-to-energy facilities in more than 25 countries.