The Three Types Of Ignition System And How They Work?
The ignition system inside a car is what makes it go from a mere 10km/hr to a faster than light 250km/hr speed. Every automotive ignition system, except diesel cars, needs to generate a reliable spark to jump across the spark plug’s gap. It utilizes an ignition coil comprising of two coils of wire wrapped around an iron core. Many car owners do not know about the different types of ignition system inside their vehicle. We will help you understand this in details.
What Are The Different Types Of Ignition System Inside A Car?
The ignition system supplies high voltage current reaching as high as 30,000 volts to the spark plug. The current produces electric sparks in the spark plug gap. It ignites to set fire to the compressed air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber. These ignition systems are different from each other not only in terms of physical make but also how these provide the necessary power to drive your car.
However, the sparking needs to take place at the right time at the end of the compression stroke in each cycle of operation. During throttle, the spark goes advance, and the mixture has time to burn and deliver its power. The ignition system needs to function efficiently at high and low speeds of the engine. We will now explain the three different ignition systems to help you understand what it is that runs your car. You can browse online to know the best maintenance tips for your car engine. When you are looking for the best ignition system for your car, then the three ignition systems mentioned below would help you choose the right one.
1. Electronic Ignition Systems
The electronic ignition systems are similar to the mechanical ignition systems. It utilizes electronic timing devices in place of ignition points. The electronic control module separates from the distributor and guides the flow of current in the ignition coil primary circuit. Some electronic ignition systems have the control module prompt by an armature or magnet, which rotates inside the distributor and sends a signal to the module. It is one of the popular types of ignition system utilized inside the car.
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2. Coil-On-Plug Ignition System
The Coil-On-Plug (COP), also known as direct ignition systems, which includes all electronic controls found inside a car with DIS (Distributiorless Ignition System). However, instead of two cylinders sharing a single coil, each coil in the Coil-On-Plug ignition system utilizes a single cylinder. It has twice the time to develop the maximum magnetic field. Some cars with the COP can generate 40,000 to 50,000 volts and stronger sparks.
As the coil mounts directly on top of the car spark plug, it does not require the spark cables as the plugs receive the firing voltage directly. The coils inside this type of ignition system are at risk of damage by degreasers and water during engine cleaning. Hence, car drivers need to make sure to wrap in plastic and protect them before any cleaning begins. Therefore, the Coil-On-Plug ignition system is also amongst popular car ignition systems in the automotive industry.
3. Distributorless Automotive Ignition System
The Distributorless Ignition System determines the spark timing depending on two shaft position sensors and a computer. It has crankshaft with the Crankshaft Position Sensor (CKP) or near the flywheel in some vehicles. The sensors monitor the shaft position and send this information to the computer. The DIS utilizes multiple ignition coils known as coil packs with each generating spark for two cylinders. It is another popular type of ignition systems, which automotive manufacturers prefer. The Distributorless Ignition System is also known for being less expensive when you are looking for an ignition system offering high voltage at a low price. In short, it is a better alternative for those looking to get an ignition system without spending too much.
Summary
Thus, there are three types of ignition system, which automotive manufacturers utilize in cars. Remember, each of these comes with specific pros and cons; it is up to you which system you choose. When you want to give your car engine a powerful boost, then these ignition systems could come in handy. These ignition systems would offer the best of functionality, and at the same time not cost too much.