Abstract: An infrared ray generator includes a housing of heat resisting refractory material, the housing forming a first opening facing in a desired heating direction. A number of heat resistant fiber mesh screens cover the first opening and, together with the housing, form a combustion chamber. A burner extends through a second opening in the housing to direct a combustion flame into the combustion chamber so that the mesh screens are brought to red heat. Gaseous substances, which originate from the burner combustion flame, are then burned upon contacting the mesh screens, so that these substances do not pass to the outside air. The mesh screens also serve to suppress noise developed within the combustion chamber.