What is the normal gap for spark plugs?
1 Answers
The normal gap for spark plugs is between 0.6 to 1.3mm. The larger the gap of the spark plug, the longer the arc generated during ignition. What does a spark plug consist of: A spark plug mainly consists of a terminal nut, insulator, terminal stud, center electrode, side electrode, and shell. Where is the spark plug located: Spark plugs are installed on the side or top of the engine. In earlier times, spark plugs were connected to the distributor via ignition cables. Over the past decade, engines in most cars have been modified to connect the ignition coil directly to the spark plug. How does a spark plug work: Under high voltage, the air between the center electrode and the side electrode of the spark plug rapidly ionizes, forming positively charged ions and negatively charged free electrons. When the voltage between the electrodes reaches a certain level, the number of ions and electrons in the gas increases like an avalanche, causing the air to lose its insulating properties. A discharge channel forms in the gap, resulting in a "breakdown" phenomenon. At this point, the gas becomes a luminous body, known as a "spark." Along with its thermal expansion, a "crackling" sound is also produced. The temperature of this electric spark can reach as high as 2000-3000°C, which is sufficient to ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine's combustion chamber.