What is the difference between platinum spark plugs and iridium spark plugs?

[Myra]

The difference between iridium spark plugs and platinum spark plugs lies in their electrode materials. Iridium spark plugs have a higher melting point, allowing their center electrodes to be made thinner, requiring lower ignition voltage, while platinum has a lower melting point than iridium. Under high-temperature conditions, iridium spark plugs can maintain more stable ignition performance. Below are expanded details: 1. Different electrode materials: The distinction between iridium and platinum spark plugs stems from their electrode materials. Both iridium and platinum are rare metals with higher melting points, enabling them to remain stable under the high temperatures generated by discharge and combustion. However, there are significant differences between iridium and platinum spark plugs. 2. Different melting points: Due to iridium's higher melting point, the center electrode can be made thinner, requiring lower ignition voltage and improving discharge performance. Although platinum has a lower melting point than iridium, under normal conditions, platinum spark plugs can still deliver excellent performance and are designed for stability, typically lasting up to 100,000 kilometers under standard conditions. 3. Different durability: Iridium is much harder than platinum, giving iridium spark plugs higher durability and a longer lifespan compared to platinum spark plugs. Iridium spark plugs also ignite faster than platinum ones, resulting in better acceleration performance in engines equipped with iridium spark plugs. 4. Different costs: Iridium spark plugs are more expensive due to higher production costs. Under normal conditions, platinum spark plugs offer better cost-performance advantages. While iridium spark plugs outperform platinum ones in overall performance, platinum spark plugs have significant cost-performance benefits.