Ignition of extremely lean or dilute mixtures is a very challenging problem. Therefore, it is essential for the engine development engineer to understand the fundamentals and limitations of existing ignition systems. This paper presents a new railplug ignition concept, a high-energy ignition system, which can enhance ignition of very lean mixtures by means of its high-energy deposition and high velocity jet of the plasma. This paper presents initial results of tests using an inductive ignition system, a capacitor discharge ignition system, and a railplug high-energy ignition system. Discharge characteristics, such as time-resolved voltage, current, and luminous emission were measured. Spark plug and railplug ignition are compared for their effects on combustion stability of a natural gas engine. The results show that railplugs have a very strong arc-phase that can ensure the ignition of very dilute mixtures.


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    Title :

    From Spark Plugs to Railplugs – The Characteristics of a New Ignition System


    Additional title:

    Sae Technical Papers


    Contributors:
    Gao, H. (author) / Hall, M. J. (author) / Matthews, Ronald D. (author) / Hari, S. (author)

    Conference:

    2004 Powertrain & Fluid Systems Conference & Exhibition ; 2004



    Publication date :

    2004-10-25




    Type of media :

    Conference paper


    Type of material :

    Print


    Language :

    English




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