The function of spark plugs
The core function of a spark plug is to convert high voltage electricity into an electric spark, precisely igniting the combustible mixture in the engine cylinder and driving the piston to move to maintain the engine's operation
Detailed explanation of the main functions of spark plugs
Youdaoplaceholder0 Ignites the mixture
The spark plug generates an electric spark through the electrode gap, directly igniting the compressed mixture of gasoline and air, causing combustion and expansion to push the piston. This process is the initial stage of engine power generation. If ignition fails, it will lead to difficult starting or engine stalling.
Key mechanism: High voltage electricity (over 10,000 volts) breaks through the air between the electrodes to form an electric arc, with an instantaneous temperature reaching over a thousand degrees Celsius, ensuring the complete combustion of the mixed gas.
Youdaoplaceholder0 Keep the engine running efficiently
Youdaoplaceholder0 Precise timing control : The spark plug needs to ignite precisely when the piston reaches the top dead center. Igniting too early causes knocking, while igniting too late leads to incomplete combustion, both of which will reduce power and increase fuel consumption.
Youdaoplaceholder0 Stable power output : A healthy spark plug can prevent problems such as idle jitter and weak acceleration, ensuring smooth driving.
Youdaoplaceholder0 Optimizing environmental protection and energy efficiency
Complete combustion can reduce harmful substances such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides in the exhaust gas, meeting modern emission standards.
Efficient ignition reduces fuel waste and saves vehicle usage costs in the long term.
Performance requirements in special environments
Spark plugs need to withstand extreme conditions inside the cylinder (instantaneous high temperature, high pressure and chemical corrosion), and their materials (such as iridium/platinum electrodes) and insulator design directly affect their lifespan and reliability. For example, the flange protrusion type spark plug enhances the anti-carbon deposit ability by extending the exposed part of the insulator.
Spark plug faults are mainly manifested as carbon deposit accumulation, electrode wear, abnormal ignition and power reduction, etc. The core causes include incomplete combustion, mismatched calorific value, oil leakage and component aging, etc.
Main fault manifestations and causes
Youdaoplaceholder0 Carbon deposit problem
Youdaoplaceholder0 Phenomenon : Black particles or grayish-black deposits adhere to the insulator skirt, causing difficult starting, engine shaking, increased fuel consumption, etc.
Youdaoplaceholder0 Reason :
The mixture is too rich or the fuel quality is poor, resulting in incomplete combustion.
When driving at low speed for a long time or for short distances, the spark plugs cannot reach their self-cleaning temperature (about 500℃).
Improper selection of spark plug calorific value (such as too low calorific value leading to carbon deposits, or too high calorific value causing overheating).
Youdaoplaceholder0 Abnormal electrode
Youdaoplaceholder0 Electrode erosion or gap abnormality : Manifested as weak acceleration and unstable idle speed, often due to premature ignition, low octane rating of fuel or engine overheating.
Youdaoplaceholder0 Electrode wear : After long-term use, the electrode clearance increases and the ignition energy decreases. The clearance needs to be checked and adjusted regularly (recommended every 15,000-20,000 kilometers).
Youdaoplaceholder0 Ignition anomaly and power problem
Youdaoplaceholder0 Difficult to start cold/hot : Insufficient ignition energy due to carbon deposits or abnormal gaps.
Youdaoplaceholder0 Power drop : If new spark plugs lack power, it may be due to carbon deposits in the fuel injectors, aging circuits, or a clogged intake system (such as a faulty air filter).
Youdaoplaceholder0 Oil leakage and burning
Youdaoplaceholder0 Phenomenon : Oily deposits adhere to the spark plug surface, accompanied by blue/black smoke emissions, which may cause damage to the oxygen sensor.
Youdaoplaceholder0 Cause : Worn piston rings, aged valve oil seals or too high engine oil level.
Maintenance and prevention suggestions
Youdaoplaceholder0 Regular maintenance : Clean the spark plugs every 5000 kilometers and check the clearance; Replace every 30,000 to 40,000 kilometers.
Youdaoplaceholder0 Matching heat value : Select the appropriate heat value according to the engine operating conditions (e.g. Cold spark plugs for high-temperature environments).
Youdaoplaceholder0 Check associated systems : If carbon deposits occur frequently, check the air filter, fuel pump and cooling system.
Youdaoplaceholder0 Note : If the vehicle experiences abnormal shaking, increased fuel consumption, or abnormal exhaust emissions, it is recommended to first check the heat value of the spark plugs and the carbon deposits in the combustion chamber.
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