Abstract: An oxy-fuel burner and method of use, having a housing defining an oxidizing-agent supply channel running in the longitudinal direction to the downstream end of the housing, a fuel supply channel likewise running in the longitudinal direction of the housing and an oxidant injector running in the longitudinal direction inside the fuel supply channel as well as an ignition and flame-control electrode inside the oxidizing-agent supply channel, the ignition and flame-control electrode being designed to provide initial ignition of the burner and subsequent control of the flame, and being connectable to a system for automatically controlling burner ignition and flame control.