Calorimetric Characterization of Commercial Ignition Systems

The spark energy delivered to the gas has been measured calorimetrically for five different ignition systems at six pressure points. Both inductive and capacitive systems have been investigated. Simultaneous electrical measurements were used to estimate the fraction of electrically stored energy actually deposited in the gas time-resolved for two systems. A separation of breakdown and glow energy was attempted using a simple model for the heat distributed to the gas and the electrodes by the spark. The results are considered valuable for the understanding of spark energy deposition as well as the design of adaptable ignition systems.