Spark Plug Grades?
2 Answers
Nickel alloy spark plugs (service life: 30,000 km), platinum spark plugs (service life: 60,000 km), iridium spark plugs (service life: 40,000 km), iridium-platinum spark plugs (service life: 80,000 km), and double iridium spark plugs. Below is relevant information about spark plugs: 1. Function of spark plugs: The role of spark plugs is to release the pulsed high-voltage electricity delivered by high-voltage wires (spark plug wires), breaking down the air between the two electrodes of the spark plug to generate an electric spark that ignites the air-fuel mixture in the cylinder. Main types include: standard spark plugs, etc. 2. Working principle of spark plugs: Under high voltage, the air between the center electrode and side electrode of a spark plug rapidly ionizes, forming positively charged ions and negatively charged free electrons. When the voltage between electrodes reaches a certain value, the number of ions and electrons in the gas increases avalanche-like, causing the air to lose its insulating properties. The gap then forms a discharge channel, resulting in a 'breakdown' phenomenon.
Spark plug grades sound quite technical, but they essentially refer to the heat range and material type. Having driven for many years, I can tell you that the heat value indicates a spark plug's heat resistance—the smaller the number, the hotter it runs, and the larger the number, the cooler. For example, a heat value of 6 is suitable for daily city driving with stable engine temperatures, while a heat value of 8 offers better durability for long-distance trips or aggressive driving without the risk of overheating and burning out. Materials also vary in grade: copper-core plugs are cheaper but need replacement every two years, whereas platinum or iridium plugs are more expensive but can last five to six years, providing stronger ignition and better fuel efficiency. I remember a friend who once installed a mismatched grade, and his engine started jerking badly. Always check the manual for the correct heat value when buying spark plugs—safety first, right?
