A Comparative Study of Plasma lgnition Systems

Performance of an array of plasma ignition systems has been studied in a CFR engine.This included a standard spark plug, an extended spark plug, a surface discharge plug, and two plasma jet ignitors, one with open cavity and the other with cavity provided with a jet forming orifice.For all the tests the engine was run at a compression ratio of 3:1, a wide open throttle, and minimum for best torque (MBT) ignition timing.

In this way specific information was obtained on ignition delay, duration of the exothermic combustion process, engine efficiency, and pollutant emissions.The study demonstrated the effect of various ignition systems on engine performance as the lean operating limit is approached.