The Influence of Arc Parameters on Combustion in a Spark-Ignition Engine

An investigation into the effect of arc parameters on cycle-by-cycle variation in the cylinder pressure development (CBCV) has revealed that under certain conditions there is a strong dependency. Both arc duration and gap can have a significant influence on combustion quality and stability in lean mixtures and the effects become more pronounced as ignition timing is advanced and load reduced.

Ionisation probes have shown a strong arc-duration dependent component in their output, suggesting the arc has a fundamental effect on the fully developed flame.