Physics Book - User contributions [en]

Spark Plugs

2017-04-10T03:02:29Z

Emauger3: /* History */

Claimed By Christopher Skretkowicz
Claimed By Edward Mauger Spring 2017

This page chronicles the inner workings and hidden mechanisms involved with spark plug applications in the real world.

==The Main Idea==

Spark plugs are essentially what their namesake says they are: plugs that screw into the cylinders of an engine and produce sparks that ignite fuel in combustion engines. Spark plugs take advantage of Faraday's Law and induction to create large spikes of voltage that would otherwise be impossible to achieve with a regular 12 volt car battery.

===A Mathematical Model===

The primary physics equation used when analyzing spark plugs is Faraday's Law, which states <math>\mathcal{E} = -{{d\Phi_B} \over dt} \ </math>, where <math>\mathcal{E}</math> is the emf produced from the time-varying magnetic flux Φ''B''. The flux is given by <math> \int_{\Sigma} \mathbf{B} \cdot d\mathbf{A}. </math>

The ignition system essentially consists of a coil pack and the spark plugs. The coil pack, which is grounded, typically of 2 coils, a primary coil and a much larger secondary coil. As current, typically 12V DC, from the car battery runs through the primary coil, it is interrupted by a device timed to the camshaft, which varies the electric current running through the circuit. Because the primary coil is wrapped around the secondary coil, a varying magnetic field induces an electric current to be run through the secondary coil, which in turn produces a much larger EMF due to the number of loops in the coil. This will take the inputted DC voltage (again, typically 12-24V) and output 15,000V-40,000V AC. That current is fed to the spark plugs, which have a center electrode that is isolated from grounding electrode which is grounded through the spark plug casing to the engine, which shares a ground with the coil. The two electrodes have a gap between them that is set typically between .4mm and 1.7mm. A smaller gap requires less voltage from the coil, a larger gap requires more voltage from the coil. In this case, the spark plug's electrodes act as a capacitor with the air in the cylinder being a dielectric insulator. For a spark to occur, the voltage from the coil must be sufficient to cause dielectric breakdown of the air. The spark created ignites the fuel in the cylinder which pushes the piston away which turns the crankshaft to create angular momentum which is then transferred through the drivetrain to the wheels of the vehicle.

The basic equation for dielectric breakdown is given as <math>{{V_d}_b}= {{E_d}_sd}</math>

V''db'' represents the dielectric breakdown voltage and E''ds'' represents the dielectric strength of the insulator and d is the distance. The dielectric strength of air is 3x10^6 V/m, so at a gap of 1mm, the required voltage for dielectric breakdown is 30,000V.

That is a good model for the spark outside of an engine at ambient temperature but there are other variables to consider for voltage required inside of the engine because the dielectric strength will change. If it is assumed the spark plugs have no sort of buildup from carbon or oil, the other variables that effect dielectric breakdown voltage are electrical frequency, temperature, the fact that the dielectric material is not just air but a mixture of gasoline and air at a specific ratio, plus the shape, size, and thickness of the electrodes of the spark plug. The temperature inside of the combustion chamber is typically around 1500 degrees Celcius, increased temperature decreases the dielectric strength. Increased electrical frequency decreases the dielectric strength which is why some manufacturers have researched using higher frequency ignition systems. Gasoline's chemical makeup can vary but Benzene, a component of gasoline, has a dielectric strength of 163x10^6 V/m which is much higher than the dielectric strength of air.

===Explanation of System===

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__FRCSvEYdE Ignition System Function]
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFiGsCkAMbk Description of Spark Plug]

==Examples==

http://vicsauto.net/images/anatomy_sparkplug.JPG

Anatomy of a Typical Spark Plug

https://media.boingboing.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/skd282544sdc_XS.jpg

Firing Spark Plug

==Connectedness==
Spark Plugs allow gasoline engines to run. The heat from the spark generated by the ignition system causes the gasoline to combust and drive the piston away to turn the crankshaft. This only works if the spark's heat is above the flashpoint of the fuel. Gasoline has a relatively low flashpoint while diesel has a relatively high flashpoint which is why gasoline engines operate at lower pressures with and with spark plugs (spark ignition) and diesels operate at much higher pressures with no spark (compression ignition). Those concepts would apply more so in a course covering thermodynamics. I am a DIY mechanic who works on both gasoline and diesel engines so understanding the physics behind the ignition system of an engine is useful for my tinkering and modifications of the vehicles I work on. A spark ignition system is mostly related to electrical engineering but as it's fundamental concepts are fairly basic in terms of electrical engineering, they are covered in the mechanical engineering curriculum. The stresses, forces and heat generated by combustion are certainly integral concepts of the mechanical engineering curriculum.

==History==
Spark plugs have been around since at least 1859. There are reports that a rudimentary version of the spark plug was originally invented by an African-American man by the name of Edmond Berger in 1839 but he did not patent it. Spark ignition was first used in an early internal combustion engine created by Belgian inventor Étienne Lenoir in 1859. British physicist Sir Oliver Lodge provided many improvements to the design in the 1880s. At the turn of the century, many patents for spark plugs were filed by Nikola Tesla, Robert Bosch, Frederick Richard Simms but Bosch is usually credited with the first commercially viable high-voltage spark plugs (1802) and Albert Champion is credited with expanding its use when he built a spark plug factory in Boston in 1805 and supplied American automobile manufacturers. Sir Oliver Lodge's children started Lodge Plug Company in Britain which allowed the British automobile industry to take off. Similarly, Bosch's spark plugs were largely used by automobile manufacturers in mainland Europe.

Throughout the years, improvements have been made such as adding resistors to the plugs to decrease radio interference, different electrode materials, and the ignition system itself has moved from points and distributors to electronic controllers. Spark plugs have been used in things other than internal combustion engines, such as the second and third stages of the Saturn V rocket.

== See also ==

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Magnetic_Field_of_a_Solenoid Magnetic Field of a Solenoid]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Curly_Electric_Fields Curly Electric Fields]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Faraday%27s_Law Faraday's Law]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Inductance Inductance]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Transformers_from_a_physics_standpoint Transformers]

===External links===

[http://www.ngk.com.au/spark-plugs/technical-information/spark-plug-anatomy-construction Spark Plug Anatomy]

==References==

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/magnetic/ignition.html

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/spark-plugs.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2udCm7DMzU

http://physics.info/dielectrics/

http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/liquid-dielectric-constants-d_1263.html

http://www.themotormuseuminminiature.co.uk/inv-jeanjoseph-etienne-lenoir.php

https://www.hemmings.com/magazine/hcc/2006/01/Albert-Champion/1281809.html

[[Category:Real Life Applications of Electromagnetic Principles]]

Spark Plugs

2017-04-10T02:58:40Z

Emauger3: /* References */

Claimed By Christopher Skretkowicz
Claimed By Edward Mauger Spring 2017

This page chronicles the inner workings and hidden mechanisms involved with spark plug applications in the real world.

==The Main Idea==

Spark plugs are essentially what their namesake says they are: plugs that screw into the cylinders of an engine and produce sparks that ignite fuel in combustion engines. Spark plugs take advantage of Faraday's Law and induction to create large spikes of voltage that would otherwise be impossible to achieve with a regular 12 volt car battery.

===A Mathematical Model===

The primary physics equation used when analyzing spark plugs is Faraday's Law, which states <math>\mathcal{E} = -{{d\Phi_B} \over dt} \ </math>, where <math>\mathcal{E}</math> is the emf produced from the time-varying magnetic flux Φ''B''. The flux is given by <math> \int_{\Sigma} \mathbf{B} \cdot d\mathbf{A}. </math>

The ignition system essentially consists of a coil pack and the spark plugs. The coil pack, which is grounded, typically of 2 coils, a primary coil and a much larger secondary coil. As current, typically 12V DC, from the car battery runs through the primary coil, it is interrupted by a device timed to the camshaft, which varies the electric current running through the circuit. Because the primary coil is wrapped around the secondary coil, a varying magnetic field induces an electric current to be run through the secondary coil, which in turn produces a much larger EMF due to the number of loops in the coil. This will take the inputted DC voltage (again, typically 12-24V) and output 15,000V-40,000V AC. That current is fed to the spark plugs, which have a center electrode that is isolated from grounding electrode which is grounded through the spark plug casing to the engine, which shares a ground with the coil. The two electrodes have a gap between them that is set typically between .4mm and 1.7mm. A smaller gap requires less voltage from the coil, a larger gap requires more voltage from the coil. In this case, the spark plug's electrodes act as a capacitor with the air in the cylinder being a dielectric insulator. For a spark to occur, the voltage from the coil must be sufficient to cause dielectric breakdown of the air. The spark created ignites the fuel in the cylinder which pushes the piston away which turns the crankshaft to create angular momentum which is then transferred through the drivetrain to the wheels of the vehicle.

The basic equation for dielectric breakdown is given as <math>{{V_d}_b}= {{E_d}_sd}</math>

V''db'' represents the dielectric breakdown voltage and E''ds'' represents the dielectric strength of the insulator and d is the distance. The dielectric strength of air is 3x10^6 V/m, so at a gap of 1mm, the required voltage for dielectric breakdown is 30,000V.

That is a good model for the spark outside of an engine at ambient temperature but there are other variables to consider for voltage required inside of the engine because the dielectric strength will change. If it is assumed the spark plugs have no sort of buildup from carbon or oil, the other variables that effect dielectric breakdown voltage are electrical frequency, temperature, the fact that the dielectric material is not just air but a mixture of gasoline and air at a specific ratio, plus the shape, size, and thickness of the electrodes of the spark plug. The temperature inside of the combustion chamber is typically around 1500 degrees Celcius, increased temperature decreases the dielectric strength. Increased electrical frequency decreases the dielectric strength which is why some manufacturers have researched using higher frequency ignition systems. Gasoline's chemical makeup can vary but Benzene, a component of gasoline, has a dielectric strength of 163x10^6 V/m which is much higher than the dielectric strength of air.

===Explanation of System===

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__FRCSvEYdE Ignition System Function]
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFiGsCkAMbk Description of Spark Plug]

==Examples==

http://vicsauto.net/images/anatomy_sparkplug.JPG

Anatomy of a Typical Spark Plug

https://media.boingboing.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/skd282544sdc_XS.jpg

Firing Spark Plug

==Connectedness==
Spark Plugs allow gasoline engines to run. The heat from the spark generated by the ignition system causes the gasoline to combust and drive the piston away to turn the crankshaft. This only works if the spark's heat is above the flashpoint of the fuel. Gasoline has a relatively low flashpoint while diesel has a relatively high flashpoint which is why gasoline engines operate at lower pressures with and with spark plugs (spark ignition) and diesels operate at much higher pressures with no spark (compression ignition). Those concepts would apply more so in a course covering thermodynamics. I am a DIY mechanic who works on both gasoline and diesel engines so understanding the physics behind the ignition system of an engine is useful for my tinkering and modifications of the vehicles I work on. A spark ignition system is mostly related to electrical engineering but as it's fundamental concepts are fairly basic in terms of electrical engineering, they are covered in the mechanical engineering curriculum. The stresses, forces and heat generated by combustion are certainly integral concepts of the mechanical engineering curriculum.

==History==
Spark plugs have been around since at least 1859. There are reports that a rudimentary version of the spark plug was originally invented by an African-American man by the name of Edmond Berger in 1839 but he did not patent it. Spark ignition was first used in an early internal combustion engine created by Belgian inventor Étienne Lenoir in 1859. British physicist Sir Oliver Lodge provided many improvements to the design in the 1880s. At the turn of the century, many patents for spark plugs were filed by Nikola Tesla, Robert Bosch, Frederick Richard Simms but Bosch is usually credited with the first commercially viable high-voltage spark plugs (1802) and Albert Champion is credited with expanding its use when he built a spark plug factory in Boston in 1805 and supplied American automobile manufacturers. Sir Oliver Lodge's children started Lodge Plug Company in Britain which allowed the British automobile industry to take off. Similarly, Bosch's spark plugs were largely used by automobile manufacturers in mainland Europe.

Throughout the years, improvements have been made such as adding resistors to the plugs to decrease radio interference, different electrode materials, and the ignition system itself has moved from points and distributors to electronic controllers.

== See also ==

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Magnetic_Field_of_a_Solenoid Magnetic Field of a Solenoid]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Curly_Electric_Fields Curly Electric Fields]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Faraday%27s_Law Faraday's Law]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Inductance Inductance]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Transformers_from_a_physics_standpoint Transformers]

===External links===

[http://www.ngk.com.au/spark-plugs/technical-information/spark-plug-anatomy-construction Spark Plug Anatomy]

==References==

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/magnetic/ignition.html

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/spark-plugs.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2udCm7DMzU

http://physics.info/dielectrics/

http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/liquid-dielectric-constants-d_1263.html

http://www.themotormuseuminminiature.co.uk/inv-jeanjoseph-etienne-lenoir.php

https://www.hemmings.com/magazine/hcc/2006/01/Albert-Champion/1281809.html

[[Category:Real Life Applications of Electromagnetic Principles]]

Spark Plugs

2017-04-10T02:57:52Z

Emauger3: /* External links */ removing dead link

Claimed By Christopher Skretkowicz
Claimed By Edward Mauger Spring 2017

This page chronicles the inner workings and hidden mechanisms involved with spark plug applications in the real world.

==The Main Idea==

Spark plugs are essentially what their namesake says they are: plugs that screw into the cylinders of an engine and produce sparks that ignite fuel in combustion engines. Spark plugs take advantage of Faraday's Law and induction to create large spikes of voltage that would otherwise be impossible to achieve with a regular 12 volt car battery.

===A Mathematical Model===

The primary physics equation used when analyzing spark plugs is Faraday's Law, which states <math>\mathcal{E} = -{{d\Phi_B} \over dt} \ </math>, where <math>\mathcal{E}</math> is the emf produced from the time-varying magnetic flux Φ''B''. The flux is given by <math> \int_{\Sigma} \mathbf{B} \cdot d\mathbf{A}. </math>

The ignition system essentially consists of a coil pack and the spark plugs. The coil pack, which is grounded, typically of 2 coils, a primary coil and a much larger secondary coil. As current, typically 12V DC, from the car battery runs through the primary coil, it is interrupted by a device timed to the camshaft, which varies the electric current running through the circuit. Because the primary coil is wrapped around the secondary coil, a varying magnetic field induces an electric current to be run through the secondary coil, which in turn produces a much larger EMF due to the number of loops in the coil. This will take the inputted DC voltage (again, typically 12-24V) and output 15,000V-40,000V AC. That current is fed to the spark plugs, which have a center electrode that is isolated from grounding electrode which is grounded through the spark plug casing to the engine, which shares a ground with the coil. The two electrodes have a gap between them that is set typically between .4mm and 1.7mm. A smaller gap requires less voltage from the coil, a larger gap requires more voltage from the coil. In this case, the spark plug's electrodes act as a capacitor with the air in the cylinder being a dielectric insulator. For a spark to occur, the voltage from the coil must be sufficient to cause dielectric breakdown of the air. The spark created ignites the fuel in the cylinder which pushes the piston away which turns the crankshaft to create angular momentum which is then transferred through the drivetrain to the wheels of the vehicle.

The basic equation for dielectric breakdown is given as <math>{{V_d}_b}= {{E_d}_sd}</math>

V''db'' represents the dielectric breakdown voltage and E''ds'' represents the dielectric strength of the insulator and d is the distance. The dielectric strength of air is 3x10^6 V/m, so at a gap of 1mm, the required voltage for dielectric breakdown is 30,000V.

That is a good model for the spark outside of an engine at ambient temperature but there are other variables to consider for voltage required inside of the engine because the dielectric strength will change. If it is assumed the spark plugs have no sort of buildup from carbon or oil, the other variables that effect dielectric breakdown voltage are electrical frequency, temperature, the fact that the dielectric material is not just air but a mixture of gasoline and air at a specific ratio, plus the shape, size, and thickness of the electrodes of the spark plug. The temperature inside of the combustion chamber is typically around 1500 degrees Celcius, increased temperature decreases the dielectric strength. Increased electrical frequency decreases the dielectric strength which is why some manufacturers have researched using higher frequency ignition systems. Gasoline's chemical makeup can vary but Benzene, a component of gasoline, has a dielectric strength of 163x10^6 V/m which is much higher than the dielectric strength of air.

===Explanation of System===

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__FRCSvEYdE Ignition System Function]
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFiGsCkAMbk Description of Spark Plug]

==Examples==

http://vicsauto.net/images/anatomy_sparkplug.JPG

Anatomy of a Typical Spark Plug

https://media.boingboing.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/skd282544sdc_XS.jpg

Firing Spark Plug

==Connectedness==
Spark Plugs allow gasoline engines to run. The heat from the spark generated by the ignition system causes the gasoline to combust and drive the piston away to turn the crankshaft. This only works if the spark's heat is above the flashpoint of the fuel. Gasoline has a relatively low flashpoint while diesel has a relatively high flashpoint which is why gasoline engines operate at lower pressures with and with spark plugs (spark ignition) and diesels operate at much higher pressures with no spark (compression ignition). Those concepts would apply more so in a course covering thermodynamics. I am a DIY mechanic who works on both gasoline and diesel engines so understanding the physics behind the ignition system of an engine is useful for my tinkering and modifications of the vehicles I work on. A spark ignition system is mostly related to electrical engineering but as it's fundamental concepts are fairly basic in terms of electrical engineering, they are covered in the mechanical engineering curriculum. The stresses, forces and heat generated by combustion are certainly integral concepts of the mechanical engineering curriculum.

==History==
Spark plugs have been around since at least 1859. There are reports that a rudimentary version of the spark plug was originally invented by an African-American man by the name of Edmond Berger in 1839 but he did not patent it. Spark ignition was first used in an early internal combustion engine created by Belgian inventor Étienne Lenoir in 1859. British physicist Sir Oliver Lodge provided many improvements to the design in the 1880s. At the turn of the century, many patents for spark plugs were filed by Nikola Tesla, Robert Bosch, Frederick Richard Simms but Bosch is usually credited with the first commercially viable high-voltage spark plugs (1802) and Albert Champion is credited with expanding its use when he built a spark plug factory in Boston in 1805 and supplied American automobile manufacturers. Sir Oliver Lodge's children started Lodge Plug Company in Britain which allowed the British automobile industry to take off. Similarly, Bosch's spark plugs were largely used by automobile manufacturers in mainland Europe.

Throughout the years, improvements have been made such as adding resistors to the plugs to decrease radio interference, different electrode materials, and the ignition system itself has moved from points and distributors to electronic controllers.

== See also ==

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Magnetic_Field_of_a_Solenoid Magnetic Field of a Solenoid]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Curly_Electric_Fields Curly Electric Fields]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Faraday%27s_Law Faraday's Law]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Inductance Inductance]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Transformers_from_a_physics_standpoint Transformers]

===External links===

[http://www.ngk.com.au/spark-plugs/technical-information/spark-plug-anatomy-construction Spark Plug Anatomy]

==References==

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/magnetic/ignition.html

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/spark-plugs.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2udCm7DMzU

http://physics.info/dielectrics/

http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/liquid-dielectric-constants-d_1263.html

[[Category:Real Life Applications of Electromagnetic Principles]]

Spark Plugs

2017-04-10T02:57:19Z

Emauger3: /* History */ Complete rewrite

Claimed By Christopher Skretkowicz
Claimed By Edward Mauger Spring 2017

This page chronicles the inner workings and hidden mechanisms involved with spark plug applications in the real world.

==The Main Idea==

Spark plugs are essentially what their namesake says they are: plugs that screw into the cylinders of an engine and produce sparks that ignite fuel in combustion engines. Spark plugs take advantage of Faraday's Law and induction to create large spikes of voltage that would otherwise be impossible to achieve with a regular 12 volt car battery.

===A Mathematical Model===

The primary physics equation used when analyzing spark plugs is Faraday's Law, which states <math>\mathcal{E} = -{{d\Phi_B} \over dt} \ </math>, where <math>\mathcal{E}</math> is the emf produced from the time-varying magnetic flux Φ''B''. The flux is given by <math> \int_{\Sigma} \mathbf{B} \cdot d\mathbf{A}. </math>

The ignition system essentially consists of a coil pack and the spark plugs. The coil pack, which is grounded, typically of 2 coils, a primary coil and a much larger secondary coil. As current, typically 12V DC, from the car battery runs through the primary coil, it is interrupted by a device timed to the camshaft, which varies the electric current running through the circuit. Because the primary coil is wrapped around the secondary coil, a varying magnetic field induces an electric current to be run through the secondary coil, which in turn produces a much larger EMF due to the number of loops in the coil. This will take the inputted DC voltage (again, typically 12-24V) and output 15,000V-40,000V AC. That current is fed to the spark plugs, which have a center electrode that is isolated from grounding electrode which is grounded through the spark plug casing to the engine, which shares a ground with the coil. The two electrodes have a gap between them that is set typically between .4mm and 1.7mm. A smaller gap requires less voltage from the coil, a larger gap requires more voltage from the coil. In this case, the spark plug's electrodes act as a capacitor with the air in the cylinder being a dielectric insulator. For a spark to occur, the voltage from the coil must be sufficient to cause dielectric breakdown of the air. The spark created ignites the fuel in the cylinder which pushes the piston away which turns the crankshaft to create angular momentum which is then transferred through the drivetrain to the wheels of the vehicle.

The basic equation for dielectric breakdown is given as <math>{{V_d}_b}= {{E_d}_sd}</math>

V''db'' represents the dielectric breakdown voltage and E''ds'' represents the dielectric strength of the insulator and d is the distance. The dielectric strength of air is 3x10^6 V/m, so at a gap of 1mm, the required voltage for dielectric breakdown is 30,000V.

That is a good model for the spark outside of an engine at ambient temperature but there are other variables to consider for voltage required inside of the engine because the dielectric strength will change. If it is assumed the spark plugs have no sort of buildup from carbon or oil, the other variables that effect dielectric breakdown voltage are electrical frequency, temperature, the fact that the dielectric material is not just air but a mixture of gasoline and air at a specific ratio, plus the shape, size, and thickness of the electrodes of the spark plug. The temperature inside of the combustion chamber is typically around 1500 degrees Celcius, increased temperature decreases the dielectric strength. Increased electrical frequency decreases the dielectric strength which is why some manufacturers have researched using higher frequency ignition systems. Gasoline's chemical makeup can vary but Benzene, a component of gasoline, has a dielectric strength of 163x10^6 V/m which is much higher than the dielectric strength of air.

===Explanation of System===

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__FRCSvEYdE Ignition System Function]
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFiGsCkAMbk Description of Spark Plug]

==Examples==

http://vicsauto.net/images/anatomy_sparkplug.JPG

Anatomy of a Typical Spark Plug

https://media.boingboing.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/skd282544sdc_XS.jpg

Firing Spark Plug

==Connectedness==
Spark Plugs allow gasoline engines to run. The heat from the spark generated by the ignition system causes the gasoline to combust and drive the piston away to turn the crankshaft. This only works if the spark's heat is above the flashpoint of the fuel. Gasoline has a relatively low flashpoint while diesel has a relatively high flashpoint which is why gasoline engines operate at lower pressures with and with spark plugs (spark ignition) and diesels operate at much higher pressures with no spark (compression ignition). Those concepts would apply more so in a course covering thermodynamics. I am a DIY mechanic who works on both gasoline and diesel engines so understanding the physics behind the ignition system of an engine is useful for my tinkering and modifications of the vehicles I work on. A spark ignition system is mostly related to electrical engineering but as it's fundamental concepts are fairly basic in terms of electrical engineering, they are covered in the mechanical engineering curriculum. The stresses, forces and heat generated by combustion are certainly integral concepts of the mechanical engineering curriculum.

==History==
Spark plugs have been around since at least 1859. There are reports that a rudimentary version of the spark plug was originally invented by an African-American man by the name of Edmond Berger in 1839 but he did not patent it. Spark ignition was first used in an early internal combustion engine created by Belgian inventor Étienne Lenoir in 1859. British physicist Sir Oliver Lodge provided many improvements to the design in the 1880s. At the turn of the century, many patents for spark plugs were filed by Nikola Tesla, Robert Bosch, Frederick Richard Simms but Bosch is usually credited with the first commercially viable high-voltage spark plugs (1802) and Albert Champion is credited with expanding its use when he built a spark plug factory in Boston in 1805 and supplied American automobile manufacturers. Sir Oliver Lodge's children started Lodge Plug Company in Britain which allowed the British automobile industry to take off. Similarly, Bosch's spark plugs were largely used by automobile manufacturers in mainland Europe.

Throughout the years, improvements have been made such as adding resistors to the plugs to decrease radio interference, different electrode materials, and the ignition system itself has moved from points and distributors to electronic controllers.

== See also ==

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Magnetic_Field_of_a_Solenoid Magnetic Field of a Solenoid]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Curly_Electric_Fields Curly Electric Fields]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Faraday%27s_Law Faraday's Law]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Inductance Inductance]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Transformers_from_a_physics_standpoint Transformers]

===External links===
[http://www.asecc.com/data/plughistory.html History of Spark Plugs]

[http://www.ngk.com.au/spark-plugs/technical-information/spark-plug-anatomy-construction Spark Plug Anatomy]

==References==

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/magnetic/ignition.html

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/spark-plugs.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2udCm7DMzU

http://physics.info/dielectrics/

http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/liquid-dielectric-constants-d_1263.html

[[Category:Real Life Applications of Electromagnetic Principles]]

Spark Plugs

2017-04-10T02:13:33Z

Emauger3: /* References */

Claimed By Christopher Skretkowicz
Claimed By Edward Mauger Spring 2017

This page chronicles the inner workings and hidden mechanisms involved with spark plug applications in the real world.

==The Main Idea==

Spark plugs are essentially what their namesake says they are: plugs that screw into the cylinders of an engine and produce sparks that ignite fuel in combustion engines. Spark plugs take advantage of Faraday's Law and induction to create large spikes of voltage that would otherwise be impossible to achieve with a regular 12 volt car battery.

===A Mathematical Model===

The primary physics equation used when analyzing spark plugs is Faraday's Law, which states <math>\mathcal{E} = -{{d\Phi_B} \over dt} \ </math>, where <math>\mathcal{E}</math> is the emf produced from the time-varying magnetic flux Φ''B''. The flux is given by <math> \int_{\Sigma} \mathbf{B} \cdot d\mathbf{A}. </math>

The ignition system essentially consists of a coil pack and the spark plugs. The coil pack, which is grounded, typically of 2 coils, a primary coil and a much larger secondary coil. As current, typically 12V DC, from the car battery runs through the primary coil, it is interrupted by a device timed to the camshaft, which varies the electric current running through the circuit. Because the primary coil is wrapped around the secondary coil, a varying magnetic field induces an electric current to be run through the secondary coil, which in turn produces a much larger EMF due to the number of loops in the coil. This will take the inputted DC voltage (again, typically 12-24V) and output 15,000V-40,000V AC. That current is fed to the spark plugs, which have a center electrode that is isolated from grounding electrode which is grounded through the spark plug casing to the engine, which shares a ground with the coil. The two electrodes have a gap between them that is set typically between .4mm and 1.7mm. A smaller gap requires less voltage from the coil, a larger gap requires more voltage from the coil. In this case, the spark plug's electrodes act as a capacitor with the air in the cylinder being a dielectric insulator. For a spark to occur, the voltage from the coil must be sufficient to cause dielectric breakdown of the air. The spark created ignites the fuel in the cylinder which pushes the piston away which turns the crankshaft to create angular momentum which is then transferred through the drivetrain to the wheels of the vehicle.

The basic equation for dielectric breakdown is given as <math>{{V_d}_b}= {{E_d}_sd}</math>

V''db'' represents the dielectric breakdown voltage and E''ds'' represents the dielectric strength of the insulator and d is the distance. The dielectric strength of air is 3x10^6 V/m, so at a gap of 1mm, the required voltage for dielectric breakdown is 30,000V.

That is a good model for the spark outside of an engine at ambient temperature but there are other variables to consider for voltage required inside of the engine because the dielectric strength will change. If it is assumed the spark plugs have no sort of buildup from carbon or oil, the other variables that effect dielectric breakdown voltage are electrical frequency, temperature, the fact that the dielectric material is not just air but a mixture of gasoline and air at a specific ratio, plus the shape, size, and thickness of the electrodes of the spark plug. The temperature inside of the combustion chamber is typically around 1500 degrees Celcius, increased temperature decreases the dielectric strength. Increased electrical frequency decreases the dielectric strength which is why some manufacturers have researched using higher frequency ignition systems. Gasoline's chemical makeup can vary but Benzene, a component of gasoline, has a dielectric strength of 163x10^6 V/m which is much higher than the dielectric strength of air.

===Explanation of System===

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__FRCSvEYdE Ignition System Function]
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFiGsCkAMbk Description of Spark Plug]

==Examples==

http://vicsauto.net/images/anatomy_sparkplug.JPG

Anatomy of a Typical Spark Plug

https://media.boingboing.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/skd282544sdc_XS.jpg

Firing Spark Plug

==Connectedness==
Spark Plugs allow gasoline engines to run. The heat from the spark generated by the ignition system causes the gasoline to combust and drive the piston away to turn the crankshaft. This only works if the spark's heat is above the flashpoint of the fuel. Gasoline has a relatively low flashpoint while diesel has a relatively high flashpoint which is why gasoline engines operate at lower pressures with and with spark plugs (spark ignition) and diesels operate at much higher pressures with no spark (compression ignition). Those concepts would apply more so in a course covering thermodynamics. I am a DIY mechanic who works on both gasoline and diesel engines so understanding the physics behind the ignition system of an engine is useful for my tinkering and modifications of the vehicles I work on. A spark ignition system is mostly related to electrical engineering but as it's fundamental concepts are fairly basic in terms of electrical engineering, they are covered in the mechanical engineering curriculum. The stresses, forces and heat generated by combustion are certainly integral concepts of the mechanical engineering curriculum.

==History==

The first known spark plug was invented by Étienne Lenoir as a part of the first internal combustion engine in 1860. Lenior and his French buddies dominated the spark plug market in the early 1900s, supplying gasoline engine manufacturers with only a limited line of plug configurations. They were also known to be quite costly and had substandard quality. It wasn't until in 1903 when Oliver Lodge created his spark plug and manufactured it throughout the United States.

== See also ==

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Magnetic_Field_of_a_Solenoid Magnetic Field of a Solenoid]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Curly_Electric_Fields Curly Electric Fields]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Faraday%27s_Law Faraday's Law]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Inductance Inductance]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Transformers_from_a_physics_standpoint Transformers]

===External links===
[http://www.asecc.com/data/plughistory.html History of Spark Plugs]

[http://www.ngk.com.au/spark-plugs/technical-information/spark-plug-anatomy-construction Spark Plug Anatomy]

==References==

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/magnetic/ignition.html

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/spark-plugs.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2udCm7DMzU

http://physics.info/dielectrics/

http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/liquid-dielectric-constants-d_1263.html

[[Category:Real Life Applications of Electromagnetic Principles]]

Spark Plugs

2017-04-10T02:12:33Z

Emauger3: /* A Mathematical Model */ Improving information on breakdown voltage

Claimed By Christopher Skretkowicz
Claimed By Edward Mauger Spring 2017

This page chronicles the inner workings and hidden mechanisms involved with spark plug applications in the real world.

==The Main Idea==

Spark plugs are essentially what their namesake says they are: plugs that screw into the cylinders of an engine and produce sparks that ignite fuel in combustion engines. Spark plugs take advantage of Faraday's Law and induction to create large spikes of voltage that would otherwise be impossible to achieve with a regular 12 volt car battery.

===A Mathematical Model===

The primary physics equation used when analyzing spark plugs is Faraday's Law, which states <math>\mathcal{E} = -{{d\Phi_B} \over dt} \ </math>, where <math>\mathcal{E}</math> is the emf produced from the time-varying magnetic flux Φ''B''. The flux is given by <math> \int_{\Sigma} \mathbf{B} \cdot d\mathbf{A}. </math>

The ignition system essentially consists of a coil pack and the spark plugs. The coil pack, which is grounded, typically of 2 coils, a primary coil and a much larger secondary coil. As current, typically 12V DC, from the car battery runs through the primary coil, it is interrupted by a device timed to the camshaft, which varies the electric current running through the circuit. Because the primary coil is wrapped around the secondary coil, a varying magnetic field induces an electric current to be run through the secondary coil, which in turn produces a much larger EMF due to the number of loops in the coil. This will take the inputted DC voltage (again, typically 12-24V) and output 15,000V-40,000V AC. That current is fed to the spark plugs, which have a center electrode that is isolated from grounding electrode which is grounded through the spark plug casing to the engine, which shares a ground with the coil. The two electrodes have a gap between them that is set typically between .4mm and 1.7mm. A smaller gap requires less voltage from the coil, a larger gap requires more voltage from the coil. In this case, the spark plug's electrodes act as a capacitor with the air in the cylinder being a dielectric insulator. For a spark to occur, the voltage from the coil must be sufficient to cause dielectric breakdown of the air. The spark created ignites the fuel in the cylinder which pushes the piston away which turns the crankshaft to create angular momentum which is then transferred through the drivetrain to the wheels of the vehicle.

The basic equation for dielectric breakdown is given as <math>{{V_d}_b}= {{E_d}_sd}</math>

V''db'' represents the dielectric breakdown voltage and E''ds'' represents the dielectric strength of the insulator and d is the distance. The dielectric strength of air is 3x10^6 V/m, so at a gap of 1mm, the required voltage for dielectric breakdown is 30,000V.

That is a good model for the spark outside of an engine at ambient temperature but there are other variables to consider for voltage required inside of the engine because the dielectric strength will change. If it is assumed the spark plugs have no sort of buildup from carbon or oil, the other variables that effect dielectric breakdown voltage are electrical frequency, temperature, the fact that the dielectric material is not just air but a mixture of gasoline and air at a specific ratio, plus the shape, size, and thickness of the electrodes of the spark plug. The temperature inside of the combustion chamber is typically around 1500 degrees Celcius, increased temperature decreases the dielectric strength. Increased electrical frequency decreases the dielectric strength which is why some manufacturers have researched using higher frequency ignition systems. Gasoline's chemical makeup can vary but Benzene, a component of gasoline, has a dielectric strength of 163x10^6 V/m which is much higher than the dielectric strength of air.

===Explanation of System===

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__FRCSvEYdE Ignition System Function]
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFiGsCkAMbk Description of Spark Plug]

==Examples==

http://vicsauto.net/images/anatomy_sparkplug.JPG

Anatomy of a Typical Spark Plug

https://media.boingboing.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/skd282544sdc_XS.jpg

Firing Spark Plug

==Connectedness==
Spark Plugs allow gasoline engines to run. The heat from the spark generated by the ignition system causes the gasoline to combust and drive the piston away to turn the crankshaft. This only works if the spark's heat is above the flashpoint of the fuel. Gasoline has a relatively low flashpoint while diesel has a relatively high flashpoint which is why gasoline engines operate at lower pressures with and with spark plugs (spark ignition) and diesels operate at much higher pressures with no spark (compression ignition). Those concepts would apply more so in a course covering thermodynamics. I am a DIY mechanic who works on both gasoline and diesel engines so understanding the physics behind the ignition system of an engine is useful for my tinkering and modifications of the vehicles I work on. A spark ignition system is mostly related to electrical engineering but as it's fundamental concepts are fairly basic in terms of electrical engineering, they are covered in the mechanical engineering curriculum. The stresses, forces and heat generated by combustion are certainly integral concepts of the mechanical engineering curriculum.

==History==

The first known spark plug was invented by Étienne Lenoir as a part of the first internal combustion engine in 1860. Lenior and his French buddies dominated the spark plug market in the early 1900s, supplying gasoline engine manufacturers with only a limited line of plug configurations. They were also known to be quite costly and had substandard quality. It wasn't until in 1903 when Oliver Lodge created his spark plug and manufactured it throughout the United States.

== See also ==

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Magnetic_Field_of_a_Solenoid Magnetic Field of a Solenoid]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Curly_Electric_Fields Curly Electric Fields]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Faraday%27s_Law Faraday's Law]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Inductance Inductance]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Transformers_from_a_physics_standpoint Transformers]

===External links===
[http://www.asecc.com/data/plughistory.html History of Spark Plugs]

[http://www.ngk.com.au/spark-plugs/technical-information/spark-plug-anatomy-construction Spark Plug Anatomy]

==References==

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/magnetic/ignition.html

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/spark-plugs.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2udCm7DMzU

http://physics.info/dielectrics/

[[Category:Real Life Applications of Electromagnetic Principles]]

Spark Plugs

2017-04-10T01:22:41Z

Emauger3: /* Connectedness */ Additional information

Claimed By Christopher Skretkowicz
Claimed By Edward Mauger Spring 2017

This page chronicles the inner workings and hidden mechanisms involved with spark plug applications in the real world.

==The Main Idea==

Spark plugs are essentially what their namesake says they are: plugs that screw into the cylinders of an engine and produce sparks that ignite fuel in combustion engines. Spark plugs take advantage of Faraday's Law and induction to create large spikes of voltage that would otherwise be impossible to achieve with a regular 12 volt car battery.

===A Mathematical Model===

The primary physics equation used when analyzing spark plugs is Faraday's Law, which states <math>\mathcal{E} = -{{d\Phi_B} \over dt} \ </math>, where <math>\mathcal{E}</math> is the emf produced from the time-varying magnetic flux Φ''B''. The flux is given by <math> \int_{\Sigma} \mathbf{B} \cdot d\mathbf{A}. </math>

The ignition system essentially consists of a coil pack and the spark plugs. The coil pack, which is grounded, typically of 2 coils, a primary coil and a much larger secondary coil. As current, typically 12V DC, from the car battery runs through the primary coil, it is interrupted by a device timed to the camshaft, which varies the electric current running through the circuit. Because the primary coil is is wrapped around the secondary coil, a varying magnetic field induces an electric current to be run through the secondary coil, which in turn produces a much larger EMF due to the number of loops in the coil. This will take the inputted DC voltage (again, typically 12-24V) and output 15,000V-40,000V AC. That current is fed to the spark plugs, which have a center electrode that is isolated from grounding electrode which is grounded through the spark plug casing to the engine, which shares a ground with the coil. The two electrodes have a gap between them that is set typically between .4mm and 1.7mm. A smaller gap requires less voltage from the coil, a larger gap requires more voltage from the coil. In this case, the spark plug's electrodes act as a capacitor with the air in the cylinder being a dielectric insulator. For spark to occur, voltage from the coil must be sufficient to cause dielectric breakdown of the air. The spark created ignites the fuel in the cylinder which pushes the piston away which turns the crankshaft to create angular momentum which is then transferred through the drivetrain to the wheels of the vehicle.

The basic equation for dielectric breakdown is given as <math>{{V_d}_b}= {{E_d}_sd}</math>
V''db'' represents the dielectric breakdown voltage and E''ds'' represents the dielectric strength of the insulator. The dielectric strength of air is 3x10^6 V/m, so at a gap of 1mm, the required voltage for dielectric breakdown is 30,000V.

===Explanation of System===

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__FRCSvEYdE Ignition System Function]
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFiGsCkAMbk Description of Spark Plug]

==Examples==

http://vicsauto.net/images/anatomy_sparkplug.JPG

Anatomy of a Typical Spark Plug

https://media.boingboing.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/skd282544sdc_XS.jpg

Firing Spark Plug

==Connectedness==
Spark Plugs allow gasoline engines to run. The heat from the spark generated by the ignition system causes the gasoline to combust and drive the piston away to turn the crankshaft. This only works if the spark's heat is above the flashpoint of the fuel. Gasoline has a relatively low flashpoint while diesel has a relatively high flashpoint which is why gasoline engines operate at lower pressures with and with spark plugs (spark ignition) and diesels operate at much higher pressures with no spark (compression ignition). Those concepts would apply more so in a course covering thermodynamics. I am a DIY mechanic who works on both gasoline and diesel engines so understanding the physics behind the ignition system of an engine is useful for my tinkering and modifications of the vehicles I work on. A spark ignition system is mostly related to electrical engineering but as it's fundamental concepts are fairly basic in terms of electrical engineering, they are covered in the mechanical engineering curriculum. The stresses, forces and heat generated by combustion are certainly integral concepts of the mechanical engineering curriculum.

==History==

The first known spark plug was invented by Étienne Lenoir as a part of the first internal combustion engine in 1860. Lenior and his French buddies dominated the spark plug market in the early 1900s, supplying gasoline engine manufacturers with only a limited line of plug configurations. They were also known to be quite costly and had substandard quality. It wasn't until in 1903 when Oliver Lodge created his spark plug and manufactured it throughout the United States.

== See also ==

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Magnetic_Field_of_a_Solenoid Magnetic Field of a Solenoid]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Curly_Electric_Fields Curly Electric Fields]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Faraday%27s_Law Faraday's Law]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Inductance Inductance]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Transformers_from_a_physics_standpoint Transformers]

===External links===
[http://www.asecc.com/data/plughistory.html History of Spark Plugs]

[http://www.ngk.com.au/spark-plugs/technical-information/spark-plug-anatomy-construction Spark Plug Anatomy]

==References==

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/magnetic/ignition.html

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/spark-plugs.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2udCm7DMzU

http://physics.info/dielectrics/

[[Category:Real Life Applications of Electromagnetic Principles]]

Spark Plugs

2017-04-05T05:37:14Z

Emauger3: Claiming to finish edits I wanted to do previously

Spark Plugs

2016-11-28T04:54:40Z

Emauger3: /* Examples */ removing copyrighted images

Claimed By Christopher Skretkowicz
Claimed By Edward Mauger Fall 2016

This page chronicles the inner workings and hidden mechanisms involved with spark plug applications in the real world.

==The Main Idea==

Spark plugs are essentially what their namesake says they are: plugs that screw into the cylinders of an engine and produce sparks that ignite fuel in combustion engines. Spark plugs take advantage of Faraday's Law and induction to create large spikes of voltage that would otherwise be impossible to achieve with a regular 12 volt car battery.

===A Mathematical Model===

The primary physics equation used when analyzing spark plugs is Faraday's Law, which states <math>\mathcal{E} = -{{d\Phi_B} \over dt} \ </math>, where <math>\mathcal{E}</math> is the emf produced from the time-varying magnetic flux Φ''B''. The flux is given by <math> \int_{\Sigma} \mathbf{B} \cdot d\mathbf{A}. </math>

The ignition system essentially consists of a coil pack and the spark plugs. The coil pack, which is grounded, typically of 2 coils, a primary coil and a much larger secondary coil. As current, typically 12V DC, from the car battery runs through the primary coil, it is interrupted by a device timed to the camshaft, which varies the electric current running through the circuit. Because the primary coil is is wrapped around the secondary coil, a varying magnetic field induces an electric current to be run through the secondary coil, which in turn produces a much larger EMF due to the number of loops in the coil. This will take the inputted DC voltage (again, typically 12-24V) and output 15,000V-40,000V AC. That current is fed to the spark plugs, which have a center electrode that is isolated from grounding electrode which is grounded through the spark plug casing to the engine, which shares a ground with the coil. The two electrodes have a gap between them that is set typically between .4mm and 1.7mm. A smaller gap requires less voltage from the coil, a larger gap requires more voltage from the coil. In this case, the spark plug's electrodes act as a capacitor with the air in the cylinder being a dielectric insulator. For spark to occur, voltage from the coil must be sufficient to cause dielectric breakdown of the air. The spark created ignites the fuel in the cylinder which pushes the piston away which turns the crankshaft to create angular momentum which is then transferred through the drivetrain to the wheels of the vehicle.

The basic equation for dielectric breakdown is given as <math>{{V_d}_b}= {{E_d}_sd}</math>
V''db'' represents the dielectric breakdown voltage and E''ds'' represents the dielectric strength of the insulator. The dielectric strength of air is 3x10^6 V/m, so at a gap of 1mm, the required voltage for dielectric breakdown is 30,000V.

===Explanation of System===

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__FRCSvEYdE Ignition System Function]
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFiGsCkAMbk Description of Spark Plug]

==Examples==

http://vicsauto.net/images/anatomy_sparkplug.JPG

Anatomy of a Typical Spark Plug

https://media.boingboing.net/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/skd282544sdc_XS.jpg

Firing Spark Plug

==Connectedness==
Spark Plugs allow gasoline engines to run. The heat from the spark generated by the ignition system causes the gasoline to combust and drive the piston away to turn the crankshaft. I am a DIY mechanic who works on both gasoline and diesel engines so understanding the physics behind the ignition system of a gasoline engine is useful for my tinkering and modifications of the vehicles I work on. An ignition system is mostly related to electrical engineering but as it's fundamental concepts are fairly basic in terms of electrical engineering, they are covered in the mechanical engineering curriculum. The stresses, forces and heat generated by combustion are certainly integral concepts of the mechanical engineering curriculum.

==History==

The first known spark plug was invented by Étienne Lenoir as a part of the first internal combustion engine in 1860. Lenior and his French buddies dominated the spark plug market in the early 1900s, supplying gasoline engine manufacturers with only a limited line of plug configurations. They were also known to be quite costly and had substandard quality. It wasn't until in 1903 when Oliver Lodge created his spark plug and manufactured it throughout the United States.

== See also ==

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Magnetic_Field_of_a_Solenoid Magnetic Field of a Solenoid]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Curly_Electric_Fields Curly Electric Fields]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Faraday%27s_Law Faraday's Law]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Inductance Inductance]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Transformers_from_a_physics_standpoint Transformers]

===External links===
[http://www.asecc.com/data/plughistory.html History of Spark Plugs]

[http://www.ngk.com.au/spark-plugs/technical-information/spark-plug-anatomy-construction Spark Plug Anatomy]

==References==

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/magnetic/ignition.html

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/spark-plugs.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2udCm7DMzU

http://physics.info/dielectrics/

[[Category:Real Life Applications of Electromagnetic Principles]]

Spark Plugs

2016-11-28T04:52:06Z

Emauger3: /* Connectedness */

Claimed By Christopher Skretkowicz
Claimed By Edward Mauger Fall 2016

This page chronicles the inner workings and hidden mechanisms involved with spark plug applications in the real world.

==The Main Idea==

Spark plugs are essentially what their namesake says they are: plugs that screw into the cylinders of an engine and produce sparks that ignite fuel in combustion engines. Spark plugs take advantage of Faraday's Law and induction to create large spikes of voltage that would otherwise be impossible to achieve with a regular 12 volt car battery.

===A Mathematical Model===

The primary physics equation used when analyzing spark plugs is Faraday's Law, which states <math>\mathcal{E} = -{{d\Phi_B} \over dt} \ </math>, where <math>\mathcal{E}</math> is the emf produced from the time-varying magnetic flux Φ''B''. The flux is given by <math> \int_{\Sigma} \mathbf{B} \cdot d\mathbf{A}. </math>

The ignition system essentially consists of a coil pack and the spark plugs. The coil pack, which is grounded, typically of 2 coils, a primary coil and a much larger secondary coil. As current, typically 12V DC, from the car battery runs through the primary coil, it is interrupted by a device timed to the camshaft, which varies the electric current running through the circuit. Because the primary coil is is wrapped around the secondary coil, a varying magnetic field induces an electric current to be run through the secondary coil, which in turn produces a much larger EMF due to the number of loops in the coil. This will take the inputted DC voltage (again, typically 12-24V) and output 15,000V-40,000V AC. That current is fed to the spark plugs, which have a center electrode that is isolated from grounding electrode which is grounded through the spark plug casing to the engine, which shares a ground with the coil. The two electrodes have a gap between them that is set typically between .4mm and 1.7mm. A smaller gap requires less voltage from the coil, a larger gap requires more voltage from the coil. In this case, the spark plug's electrodes act as a capacitor with the air in the cylinder being a dielectric insulator. For spark to occur, voltage from the coil must be sufficient to cause dielectric breakdown of the air. The spark created ignites the fuel in the cylinder which pushes the piston away which turns the crankshaft to create angular momentum which is then transferred through the drivetrain to the wheels of the vehicle.

The basic equation for dielectric breakdown is given as <math>{{V_d}_b}= {{E_d}_sd}</math>
V''db'' represents the dielectric breakdown voltage and E''ds'' represents the dielectric strength of the insulator. The dielectric strength of air is 3x10^6 V/m, so at a gap of 1mm, the required voltage for dielectric breakdown is 30,000V.

===Explanation of System===

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__FRCSvEYdE Ignition System Function]
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFiGsCkAMbk Description of Spark Plug]

==Examples==

[#[File:Spark Plug(1).jpg]]

Anatomy of a Typical Spark Plug

[#[File:firing spark plug.jpg]]

Firing Spark Plug

==Connectedness==
Spark Plugs allow gasoline engines to run. The heat from the spark generated by the ignition system causes the gasoline to combust and drive the piston away to turn the crankshaft. I am a DIY mechanic who works on both gasoline and diesel engines so understanding the physics behind the ignition system of a gasoline engine is useful for my tinkering and modifications of the vehicles I work on. An ignition system is mostly related to electrical engineering but as it's fundamental concepts are fairly basic in terms of electrical engineering, they are covered in the mechanical engineering curriculum. The stresses, forces and heat generated by combustion are certainly integral concepts of the mechanical engineering curriculum.

==History==

The first known spark plug was invented by Étienne Lenoir as a part of the first internal combustion engine in 1860. Lenior and his French buddies dominated the spark plug market in the early 1900s, supplying gasoline engine manufacturers with only a limited line of plug configurations. They were also known to be quite costly and had substandard quality. It wasn't until in 1903 when Oliver Lodge created his spark plug and manufactured it throughout the United States.

== See also ==

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Magnetic_Field_of_a_Solenoid Magnetic Field of a Solenoid]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Curly_Electric_Fields Curly Electric Fields]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Faraday%27s_Law Faraday's Law]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Inductance Inductance]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Transformers_from_a_physics_standpoint Transformers]

===External links===
[http://www.asecc.com/data/plughistory.html History of Spark Plugs]

[http://www.ngk.com.au/spark-plugs/technical-information/spark-plug-anatomy-construction Spark Plug Anatomy]

==References==

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/magnetic/ignition.html

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/spark-plugs.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2udCm7DMzU

http://physics.info/dielectrics/

[[Category:Real Life Applications of Electromagnetic Principles]]

Spark Plugs

2016-11-28T04:40:54Z

Emauger3: /* References */

Claimed By Christopher Skretkowicz
Claimed By Edward Mauger Fall 2016

This page chronicles the inner workings and hidden mechanisms involved with spark plug applications in the real world.

==The Main Idea==

Spark plugs are essentially what their namesake says they are: plugs that screw into the cylinders of an engine and produce sparks that ignite fuel in combustion engines. Spark plugs take advantage of Faraday's Law and induction to create large spikes of voltage that would otherwise be impossible to achieve with a regular 12 volt car battery.

===A Mathematical Model===

The primary physics equation used when analyzing spark plugs is Faraday's Law, which states <math>\mathcal{E} = -{{d\Phi_B} \over dt} \ </math>, where <math>\mathcal{E}</math> is the emf produced from the time-varying magnetic flux Φ''B''. The flux is given by <math> \int_{\Sigma} \mathbf{B} \cdot d\mathbf{A}. </math>

The ignition system essentially consists of a coil pack and the spark plugs. The coil pack, which is grounded, typically of 2 coils, a primary coil and a much larger secondary coil. As current, typically 12V DC, from the car battery runs through the primary coil, it is interrupted by a device timed to the camshaft, which varies the electric current running through the circuit. Because the primary coil is is wrapped around the secondary coil, a varying magnetic field induces an electric current to be run through the secondary coil, which in turn produces a much larger EMF due to the number of loops in the coil. This will take the inputted DC voltage (again, typically 12-24V) and output 15,000V-40,000V AC. That current is fed to the spark plugs, which have a center electrode that is isolated from grounding electrode which is grounded through the spark plug casing to the engine, which shares a ground with the coil. The two electrodes have a gap between them that is set typically between .4mm and 1.7mm. A smaller gap requires less voltage from the coil, a larger gap requires more voltage from the coil. In this case, the spark plug's electrodes act as a capacitor with the air in the cylinder being a dielectric insulator. For spark to occur, voltage from the coil must be sufficient to cause dielectric breakdown of the air. The spark created ignites the fuel in the cylinder which pushes the piston away which turns the crankshaft to create angular momentum which is then transferred through the drivetrain to the wheels of the vehicle.

The basic equation for dielectric breakdown is given as <math>{{V_d}_b}= {{E_d}_sd}</math>
V''db'' represents the dielectric breakdown voltage and E''ds'' represents the dielectric strength of the insulator. The dielectric strength of air is 3x10^6 V/m, so at a gap of 1mm, the required voltage for dielectric breakdown is 30,000V.

===Explanation of System===

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__FRCSvEYdE Ignition System Function]
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFiGsCkAMbk Description of Spark Plug]

==Examples==

[#[File:Spark Plug(1).jpg]]

Anatomy of a Typical Spark Plug

[#[File:firing spark plug.jpg]]

Firing Spark Plug

==Connectedness==
Spark Plugs are literally the spark behind all combustion engines that power motorized vehicles such as cars, trucks and motorcycles. I have always had an interest in cars when I was growing up, but never really knew (and still don't completely know) how they work. Spark plugs may be a small part of a cars engine, but they are vital to creating the power that drives engines. It is very intriguing to see how exactly these spark plugs are able to created large voltage spikes to produce sparks within engines by using Faraday's law, a concept covered in an intro Physics class. Spark plugs do not necessarily link directly to my Civil Engineering major, but I have gained an appreciation for the electromagnetic ins and outs that drive mechanical systems in the real world.

==History==

The first known spark plug was invented by Étienne Lenoir as a part of the first internal combustion engine in 1860. Lenior and his French buddies dominated the spark plug market in the early 1900s, supplying gasoline engine manufacturers with only a limited line of plug configurations. They were also known to be quite costly and had substandard quality. It wasn't until in 1903 when Oliver Lodge created his spark plug and manufactured it throughout the United States.

== See also ==

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Magnetic_Field_of_a_Solenoid Magnetic Field of a Solenoid]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Curly_Electric_Fields Curly Electric Fields]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Faraday%27s_Law Faraday's Law]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Inductance Inductance]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Transformers_from_a_physics_standpoint Transformers]

===External links===
[http://www.asecc.com/data/plughistory.html History of Spark Plugs]

[http://www.ngk.com.au/spark-plugs/technical-information/spark-plug-anatomy-construction Spark Plug Anatomy]

==References==

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/magnetic/ignition.html

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/spark-plugs.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2udCm7DMzU

http://physics.info/dielectrics/

[[Category:Real Life Applications of Electromagnetic Principles]]

Spark Plugs

2016-11-28T04:38:59Z

Emauger3: /* The Main Idea */

Claimed By Christopher Skretkowicz
Claimed By Edward Mauger Fall 2016

This page chronicles the inner workings and hidden mechanisms involved with spark plug applications in the real world.

==The Main Idea==

Spark plugs are essentially what their namesake says they are: plugs that screw into the cylinders of an engine and produce sparks that ignite fuel in combustion engines. Spark plugs take advantage of Faraday's Law and induction to create large spikes of voltage that would otherwise be impossible to achieve with a regular 12 volt car battery.

===A Mathematical Model===

The primary physics equation used when analyzing spark plugs is Faraday's Law, which states <math>\mathcal{E} = -{{d\Phi_B} \over dt} \ </math>, where <math>\mathcal{E}</math> is the emf produced from the time-varying magnetic flux Φ''B''. The flux is given by <math> \int_{\Sigma} \mathbf{B} \cdot d\mathbf{A}. </math>

The ignition system essentially consists of a coil pack and the spark plugs. The coil pack, which is grounded, typically of 2 coils, a primary coil and a much larger secondary coil. As current, typically 12V DC, from the car battery runs through the primary coil, it is interrupted by a device timed to the camshaft, which varies the electric current running through the circuit. Because the primary coil is is wrapped around the secondary coil, a varying magnetic field induces an electric current to be run through the secondary coil, which in turn produces a much larger EMF due to the number of loops in the coil. This will take the inputted DC voltage (again, typically 12-24V) and output 15,000V-40,000V AC. That current is fed to the spark plugs, which have a center electrode that is isolated from grounding electrode which is grounded through the spark plug casing to the engine, which shares a ground with the coil. The two electrodes have a gap between them that is set typically between .4mm and 1.7mm. A smaller gap requires less voltage from the coil, a larger gap requires more voltage from the coil. In this case, the spark plug's electrodes act as a capacitor with the air in the cylinder being a dielectric insulator. For spark to occur, voltage from the coil must be sufficient to cause dielectric breakdown of the air. The spark created ignites the fuel in the cylinder which pushes the piston away which turns the crankshaft to create angular momentum which is then transferred through the drivetrain to the wheels of the vehicle.

The basic equation for dielectric breakdown is given as <math>{{V_d}_b}= {{E_d}_sd}</math>
V''db'' represents the dielectric breakdown voltage and E''ds'' represents the dielectric strength of the insulator. The dielectric strength of air is 3x10^6 V/m, so at a gap of 1mm, the required voltage for dielectric breakdown is 30,000V.

===Explanation of System===

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__FRCSvEYdE Ignition System Function]
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFiGsCkAMbk Description of Spark Plug]

==Examples==

[#[File:Spark Plug(1).jpg]]

Anatomy of a Typical Spark Plug

[#[File:firing spark plug.jpg]]

Firing Spark Plug

==Connectedness==
Spark Plugs are literally the spark behind all combustion engines that power motorized vehicles such as cars, trucks and motorcycles. I have always had an interest in cars when I was growing up, but never really knew (and still don't completely know) how they work. Spark plugs may be a small part of a cars engine, but they are vital to creating the power that drives engines. It is very intriguing to see how exactly these spark plugs are able to created large voltage spikes to produce sparks within engines by using Faraday's law, a concept covered in an intro Physics class. Spark plugs do not necessarily link directly to my Civil Engineering major, but I have gained an appreciation for the electromagnetic ins and outs that drive mechanical systems in the real world.

==History==

The first known spark plug was invented by Étienne Lenoir as a part of the first internal combustion engine in 1860. Lenior and his French buddies dominated the spark plug market in the early 1900s, supplying gasoline engine manufacturers with only a limited line of plug configurations. They were also known to be quite costly and had substandard quality. It wasn't until in 1903 when Oliver Lodge created his spark plug and manufactured it throughout the United States.

== See also ==

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Magnetic_Field_of_a_Solenoid Magnetic Field of a Solenoid]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Curly_Electric_Fields Curly Electric Fields]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Faraday%27s_Law Faraday's Law]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Inductance Inductance]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Transformers_from_a_physics_standpoint Transformers]

===External links===
[http://www.asecc.com/data/plughistory.html History of Spark Plugs]

[http://www.ngk.com.au/spark-plugs/technical-information/spark-plug-anatomy-construction Spark Plug Anatomy]

==References==

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/magnetic/ignition.html

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/spark-plugs.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2udCm7DMzU

[[Category:Real Life Applications of Electromagnetic Principles]]

Spark Plugs

2016-11-28T04:30:48Z

Emauger3: /* A Mathematical Model */ updated and added language to improve understanding

Claimed By Christopher Skretkowicz
Claimed By Edward Mauger Fall 2016

This page chronicles the inner workings and hidden mechanisms involved with spark plug applications in the real world.

==The Main Idea==

Spark plugs are essentially what their namesake says they are: plugs that screw into the cylinders of an engine and produce sparks that ignite fuel in combustion engines. Spark plugs take advantage of Faraday's Law and induction to create large spikes of voltage that would otherwise be impossible to achieve with a regular 12 volt car battery.

===A Mathematical Model===

The primary physics equation used when analyzing spark plugs is Faraday's Law, which states <math>\mathcal{E} = -{{d\Phi_B} \over dt} \ </math>, where <math>\mathcal{E}</math> is the emf produced from the time-varying magnetic flux Φ''B''. The flux is given by <math> \int_{\Sigma} \mathbf{B} \cdot d\mathbf{A}. </math>

The ignition system essentially consists of a coil pack and the spark plugs. The coil pack, which is grounded, typically of 2 coils, a primary coil and a much larger secondary coil. As current, typically 12V DC, from the car battery runs through the primary coil, it is interrupted by a device timed to the camshaft, which varies the electric current running through the circuit. Because the primary coil is is wrapped around the secondary coil, a varying magnetic field induces an electric current to be run through the secondary coil, which in turn produces a much larger EMF due to the number of loops in the coil. This will take the inputted DC voltage (again, typically 12-24V) and output 15,000V-40,000V AC. That current is fed to the spark plugs, which have a center electrode that is isolated from grounding electrode which is grounded through the spark plug casing to the engine, which shares a ground with the coil. The two electrodes have a gap between them that is set typically between .4mm and 1.7mm. A smaller gap requires less voltage from the coil, a larger gap requires more voltage from the coil. In this case, the spark plug's electrodes act as a capacitor with the air in the cylinder being a dielectric insulator. For spark to occur, voltage from the coil must be sufficient to cause dielectric breakdown of the air. The basic equation for dielectric breakdown is given as <math>{{V_d}_b}= {{E_d}_sd}</math>, with V''db'' being the dielectric breakdown voltage and E''ds'' being the dielectric strength of the insulator. The dielectric strength of air is 3x10^6 V/m, so at a gap of 1mm, the required voltage for dielectric breakdown is 30,000V.

===Explanation of System===

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__FRCSvEYdE Ignition System Function]
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFiGsCkAMbk Description of Spark Plug]

==Examples==

[#[File:Spark Plug(1).jpg]]

Anatomy of a Typical Spark Plug

[#[File:firing spark plug.jpg]]

Firing Spark Plug

==Connectedness==
Spark Plugs are literally the spark behind all combustion engines that power motorized vehicles such as cars, trucks and motorcycles. I have always had an interest in cars when I was growing up, but never really knew (and still don't completely know) how they work. Spark plugs may be a small part of a cars engine, but they are vital to creating the power that drives engines. It is very intriguing to see how exactly these spark plugs are able to created large voltage spikes to produce sparks within engines by using Faraday's law, a concept covered in an intro Physics class. Spark plugs do not necessarily link directly to my Civil Engineering major, but I have gained an appreciation for the electromagnetic ins and outs that drive mechanical systems in the real world.

==History==

The first known spark plug was invented by Étienne Lenoir as a part of the first internal combustion engine in 1860. Lenior and his French buddies dominated the spark plug market in the early 1900s, supplying gasoline engine manufacturers with only a limited line of plug configurations. They were also known to be quite costly and had substandard quality. It wasn't until in 1903 when Oliver Lodge created his spark plug and manufactured it throughout the United States.

== See also ==

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Magnetic_Field_of_a_Solenoid Magnetic Field of a Solenoid]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Curly_Electric_Fields Curly Electric Fields]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Faraday%27s_Law Faraday's Law]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Inductance Inductance]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Transformers_from_a_physics_standpoint Transformers]

===External links===
[http://www.asecc.com/data/plughistory.html History of Spark Plugs]

[http://www.ngk.com.au/spark-plugs/technical-information/spark-plug-anatomy-construction Spark Plug Anatomy]

==References==

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/magnetic/ignition.html

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/spark-plugs.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2udCm7DMzU

[[Category:Real Life Applications of Electromagnetic Principles]]

Spark Plugs

2016-11-28T02:18:49Z

Emauger3: /* A Computational Model */ Removed copyrighted video, replaced with another explanation and description of sparkplugs. Both videos are under Creative Commons licensing

Claimed By Christopher Skretkowicz
Claimed By Edward Mauger Fall 2016

This page chronicles the inner workings and hidden mechanisms involved with spark plug applications in the real world.

==The Main Idea==

Spark plugs are essentially what their namesake says they are: plugs that screw into the cylinders of an engine and produce sparks that ignite fuel in combustion engines. Spark plugs take advantage of Faraday's Law and induction to create large spikes of voltage that would otherwise be impossible to achieve with a regular 12 volt car battery.

===A Mathematical Model===

The primary physics equation used when analyzing spark plugs is Faraday's Law, which states <math>\mathcal{E} = -{{d\Phi_B} \over dt} \ </math>, where <math>\mathcal{E}</math> is the emf produced from the time-varying magnetic flux Φ''B''. The flux is given by <math> \int_{\Sigma} \mathbf{B} \cdot d\mathbf{A}. </math>

The spark plug essentially consists of 2 coils, a primary coil and a much larger secondary coil. As current from the car battery runs through the primary coil, it is interrupted by cam action, which varies the electric current running through the circuit. Because the primary coil is is wrapped around the secondary coil, a varying magnetic field induces an electric current to be run through the secondary coil, which is much larger, which in turn produces a much larger EMF due to the number of loops in the coil.

===Explanation of System===

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=__FRCSvEYdE Ignition System Function]
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sFiGsCkAMbk Description of Spark Plug]

==Examples==

[#[File:Spark Plug(1).jpg]]

Anatomy of a Typical Spark Plug

[#[File:firing spark plug.jpg]]

Firing Spark Plug

==Connectedness==
Spark Plugs are literally the spark behind all combustion engines that power motorized vehicles such as cars, trucks and motorcycles. I have always had an interest in cars when I was growing up, but never really knew (and still don't completely know) how they work. Spark plugs may be a small part of a cars engine, but they are vital to creating the power that drives engines. It is very intriguing to see how exactly these spark plugs are able to created large voltage spikes to produce sparks within engines by using Faraday's law, a concept covered in an intro Physics class. Spark plugs do not necessarily link directly to my Civil Engineering major, but I have gained an appreciation for the electromagnetic ins and outs that drive mechanical systems in the real world.

==History==

The first known spark plug was invented by Étienne Lenoir as a part of the first internal combustion engine in 1860. Lenior and his French buddies dominated the spark plug market in the early 1900s, supplying gasoline engine manufacturers with only a limited line of plug configurations. They were also known to be quite costly and had substandard quality. It wasn't until in 1903 when Oliver Lodge created his spark plug and manufactured it throughout the United States.

== See also ==

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Magnetic_Field_of_a_Solenoid Magnetic Field of a Solenoid]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Curly_Electric_Fields Curly Electric Fields]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Faraday%27s_Law Faraday's Law]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Inductance Inductance]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Transformers_from_a_physics_standpoint Transformers]

===External links===
[http://www.asecc.com/data/plughistory.html History of Spark Plugs]

[http://www.ngk.com.au/spark-plugs/technical-information/spark-plug-anatomy-construction Spark Plug Anatomy]

==References==

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/magnetic/ignition.html

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/spark-plugs.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2udCm7DMzU

[[Category:Real Life Applications of Electromagnetic Principles]]

Spark Plugs

2016-11-26T05:34:19Z

Emauger3: Copyright on one image, probably a copyright on the other.

Claimed By Christopher Skretkowicz
Claimed By Edward Mauger Fall 2016

This page chronicles the inner workings and hidden mechanisms involved with spark plug applications in the real world.

==The Main Idea==

Spark plugs are essentially what their namesake says they are: plugs that screw into the cylinders of an engine and produce sparks that ignite fuel in combustion engines. Spark plugs take advantage of Faraday's Law and induction to create large spikes of voltage that would otherwise be impossible to achieve with a regular 12 volt car battery.

===A Mathematical Model===

The primary physics equation used when analyzing spark plugs is Faraday's Law, which states <math>\mathcal{E} = -{{d\Phi_B} \over dt} \ </math>, where <math>\mathcal{E}</math> is the emf produced from the time-varying magnetic flux Φ''B''. The flux is given by <math> \int_{\Sigma} \mathbf{B} \cdot d\mathbf{A}. </math>

The spark plug essentially consists of 2 coils, a primary coil and a much larger secondary coil. As current from the car battery runs through the primary coil, it is interrupted by cam action, which varies the electric current running through the circuit. Because the primary coil is is wrapped around the secondary coil, a varying magnetic field induces an electric current to be run through the secondary coil, which is much larger, which in turn produces a much larger EMF due to the number of loops in the coil.

===A Computational Model===

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2udCm7DMzU Spark Plug Modeled in Car]

==Examples==

[#[File:Spark Plug(1).jpg]]

Anatomy of a Typical Spark Plug

[#[File:firing spark plug.jpg]]

Firing Spark Plug

==Connectedness==
Spark Plugs are literally the spark behind all combustion engines that power motorized vehicles such as cars, trucks and motorcycles. I have always had an interest in cars when I was growing up, but never really knew (and still don't completely know) how they work. Spark plugs may be a small part of a cars engine, but they are vital to creating the power that drives engines. It is very intriguing to see how exactly these spark plugs are able to created large voltage spikes to produce sparks within engines by using Faraday's law, a concept covered in an intro Physics class. Spark plugs do not necessarily link directly to my Civil Engineering major, but I have gained an appreciation for the electromagnetic ins and outs that drive mechanical systems in the real world.

==History==

The first known spark plug was invented by Étienne Lenoir as a part of the first internal combustion engine in 1860. Lenior and his French buddies dominated the spark plug market in the early 1900s, supplying gasoline engine manufacturers with only a limited line of plug configurations. They were also known to be quite costly and had substandard quality. It wasn't until in 1903 when Oliver Lodge created his spark plug and manufactured it throughout the United States.

== See also ==

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Magnetic_Field_of_a_Solenoid Magnetic Field of a Solenoid]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Curly_Electric_Fields Curly Electric Fields]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Faraday%27s_Law Faraday's Law]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Inductance Inductance]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Transformers_from_a_physics_standpoint Transformers]

===External links===
[http://www.asecc.com/data/plughistory.html History of Spark Plugs]

[http://www.ngk.com.au/spark-plugs/technical-information/spark-plug-anatomy-construction Spark Plug Anatomy]

==References==

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/magnetic/ignition.html

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/spark-plugs.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2udCm7DMzU

[[Category:Real Life Applications of Electromagnetic Principles]]

Spark Plugs

2016-11-25T22:20:09Z

Emauger3:

Claimed By Christopher Skretkowicz
Claimed By Edward Mauger Fall 2016

This page chronicles the inner workings and hidden mechanisms involved with spark plug applications in the real world.

==The Main Idea==

Spark plugs are essentially what their namesake says they are: plugs that screw into the cylinders of an engine and produce sparks that ignite fuel in combustion engines. Spark plugs take advantage of Faraday's Law and induction to create large spikes of voltage that would otherwise be impossible to achieve with a regular 12 volt car battery.

===A Mathematical Model===

The primary physics equation used when analyzing spark plugs is Faraday's Law, which states <math>\mathcal{E} = -{{d\Phi_B} \over dt} \ </math>, where <math>\mathcal{E}</math> is the emf produced from the time-varying magnetic flux Φ''B''. The flux is given by <math> \int_{\Sigma} \mathbf{B} \cdot d\mathbf{A}. </math>

The spark plug essentially consists of 2 coils, a primary coil and a much larger secondary coil. As current from the car battery runs through the primary coil, it is interrupted by cam action, which varies the electric current running through the circuit. Because the primary coil is is wrapped around the secondary coil, a varying magnetic field induces an electric current to be run through the secondary coil, which is much larger, which in turn produces a much larger EMF due to the number of loops in the coil.

===A Computational Model===

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2udCm7DMzU Spark Plug Modeled in Car]

==Examples==

[[File:Spark Plug(1).jpg]]

Anatomy of a Typical Spark Plug

[[File:firing spark plug.jpg]]

Firing Spark Plug

==Connectedness==
Spark Plugs are literally the spark behind all combustion engines that power motorized vehicles such as cars, trucks and motorcycles. I have always had an interest in cars when I was growing up, but never really knew (and still don't completely know) how they work. Spark plugs may be a small part of a cars engine, but they are vital to creating the power that drives engines. It is very intriguing to see how exactly these spark plugs are able to created large voltage spikes to produce sparks within engines by using Faraday's law, a concept covered in an intro Physics class. Spark plugs do not necessarily link directly to my Civil Engineering major, but I have gained an appreciation for the electromagnetic ins and outs that drive mechanical systems in the real world.

==History==

The first known spark plug was invented by Étienne Lenoir as a part of the first internal combustion engine in 1860. Lenior and his French buddies dominated the spark plug market in the early 1900s, supplying gasoline engine manufacturers with only a limited line of plug configurations. They were also known to be quite costly and had substandard quality. It wasn't until in 1903 when Oliver Lodge created his spark plug and manufactured it throughout the United States.

== See also ==

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Magnetic_Field_of_a_Solenoid Magnetic Field of a Solenoid]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Curly_Electric_Fields Curly Electric Fields]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Faraday%27s_Law Faraday's Law]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Inductance Inductance]

[http://www.physicsbook.gatech.edu/Transformers_from_a_physics_standpoint Transformers]

===External links===
[http://www.asecc.com/data/plughistory.html History of Spark Plugs]

[http://www.ngk.com.au/spark-plugs/technical-information/spark-plug-anatomy-construction Spark Plug Anatomy]

==References==

http://hyperphysics.phy-astr.gsu.edu/hbase/magnetic/ignition.html

http://auto.howstuffworks.com/spark-plugs.htm

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b2udCm7DMzU

[[Category:Real Life Applications of Electromagnetic Principles]]