PILOT LIGHTS Meaning and
Definition
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Pilot lights are small gas flames used as a source of ignition in certain appliances and devices. These lights are utilized in equipment where it is crucial to maintain a continuous flame for ignition purposes, such as in older gas stoves, water heaters, furnaces, and some industrial machinery.
The pilot light serves as a constant source of flame that remains burning even when the primary burner is not in operation. It is a safety mechanism that prevents the release of unburned gas into the surrounding area. When the pilot light is ignited, it produces enough heat to keep the gas valve open, allowing continuous fuel flow to the main burner. If the primary burner goes out for any reason, the pilot light is designed to automatically relight it. This ensures a consistent and uninterrupted burning process in the appliance.
Pilot lights are typically small, low-intensity flames permanently lit in a visual indicator area of the device, typically illuminated in a blue color due to its gas composition. In many modern appliances, pilot lights have been progressively replaced with electronic ignition systems or flame rectification devices, which have become more energy-efficient and reliable. However, older equipment still relies on pilot lights, requiring periodic monitoring to ensure they remain lit and functioning correctly.
Common Misspellings for PILOT LIGHTS
- oilot lights
- lilot lights
- -ilot lights
- 0ilot lights
- pulot lights
- pjlot lights
- pklot lights
- polot lights
- p9lot lights
- p8lot lights
- pikot lights
- pipot lights
- pioot lights
- pilit lights
- pilkt lights
- pillt lights
- pilpt lights
- pil0t lights
- pil9t lights
- pilor lights
Etymology of PILOT LIGHTS
The word pilot originated from the French word pilot (meaning one who steers a ship) around the 16th century. It was borrowed from the Italian word piloto which had the same meaning. The Italian word came from the Latin word pilotus, which referred to a helmsman or steersman.
The term pilot light refers to a small flame kept continuously burning in a gas appliance to ignite the main burner when needed. The term pilot light emerged in the early 20th century with the advent of gas-powered appliances such as stoves, heaters, and boilers. The use of a small flame to ignite a larger one is like a pilot guiding and leading the way, hence the term pilot light.
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