Which component is primarily responsible for controlling the fuel flow in an oil burner?

The fuel pump is primarily responsible for controlling the fuel flow in an oil burner. Its main function is to deliver oil from the storage tank to the burner at a specific pressure and volume needed for proper combustion. By ensuring that the correct amount of fuel reaches the burner, the fuel pump plays a crucial role in maintaining efficiency and performance in heating systems. If the fuel pump is functioning properly, it ensures that the burner receives a consistent fuel supply, which is essential for stabilizing the combustion process.

Other components, such as the igniter, air and oil mixture, and burner nozzle, also play important roles in the overall operation of the oil burner. For instance, the igniter is responsible for igniting the fuel-air mixture once it reaches the nozzle, but it does not control the flow of fuel. The burner nozzle atomizes the fuel, which is critical for combustion, and the air and oil mixture must be balanced for efficient burning; however, neither directly controls the fuel flow like the fuel pump does.