The automotive spark plug is very simple in design. However, this does not mean that the choice of this most important element of the engine can be neglected.
Structurally, the spark plug consists of a metal middle electrode, placed in a ceramic shell, and a side electrode located on the threaded part. The kit also includes an O-ring and, in some cases, an interference suppression resistor. There are several design features that improve spark plug performance.
Choosing a quality candle by design
Modern companies manufacturing car candles divide their products by the number of electrodes: there are two- or multi-electrode products. The first type is a classic candle with one central, one side electrode. On a well-adjusted car engine, such products will last 30-60 thousand km (depending on the manufacturer). The presence of additional electrodes is designed to provide an improved sparking process, which occurs due to the spontaneous detection of an element with less carbon deposits.
Another factor affecting the quality of the candle is the material of manufacture. In conventional products, steel alloyed with manganese or nickel is used. To improve the work of the candle, extend its resource, soldering from iridium and even platinum can be used. In the latter case, less voltage is required for the formation of a spark, which means that the load on the coil will decrease, and the fuel mixture will burn in a more complete volume. The best option for a candle is a platinum multi-electrode product, but its price will be quite high.
More recently, a new version of the candle has appeared, called the prechamber (or plasma-prechamber). There is no side electrode - the body plays its role. This design allows a ring-shaped spark gap to be obtained, as a result of which the spark moves in a circle. It is believed that the prechamber spark plug is better self-cleaning, which increases its resource, and also makes it easier to start the engine in winter. However, there have been few sufficient tests on the new product.
Manufacturers
The German company Bosh is rightly considered one of the recognized leaders in the production of spark plugs. Its products are used on almost all vehicles manufactured in Europe, Japan, South Korea and the United States. Firms Brisk, NGK are not far behind Bosh; the volume of production reaches several hundred million candles per year. Also good reputation with Champion and Denso Corporation. The latter focuses on the production of platinum, iridium products with interference suppression resistors.
