Which material is better for spark plugs?

[VanCali]

Iridium spark plugs are better, mainly for the following reasons: 1. Their high melting point allows them to be used in various high-power engines, tolerating higher temperatures without electrode melting or burning out. 2. Their high hardness enables the electrodes to be made thinner. Thinner electrodes provide more concentrated ignition, stronger energy, and more stable spark paths, effectively improving combustion efficiency and effectiveness. Additional benefits of iridium spark plugs include: 1. Enhanced performance: Sufficient ignition energy and stable spark points increase output power and improve dynamic performance. 2. Smooth operation: Excellent combustion and strong explosive power boost engine speed, making the engine run more smoothly. 3. Quick ignition: Low ignition voltage and reduced electrical suppression enable faster ignition. 4. Fuel savings: Good combustion conditions and high instantaneous output power allow for lower fuel consumption while maintaining the same output power.

[SanGianna]

I've been driving for twenty years, and the material of spark plugs is quite particular. The common copper ones are the cheapest but wear out easily, needing replacement every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers, suitable for budget-conscious car owners; nickel alloy offers decent cost-performance, being slightly more durable than copper; platinum is more expensive but has strong high-temperature resistance and stable ignition, with a lifespan of up to 50,000 kilometers—my old car noticeably had less engine noise after switching to them; iridium is even more advanced, with fine electrodes that conduct current quickly, providing faster starts and acceleration while saving fuel, making it cost-effective in the long run. Don't be tempted to cheap out and choose the wrong material—if your engine gets too much carbon buildup, it'll be a nightmare. For regular family cars, I recommend platinum—it's practical enough.

[McEdward]

I'm a tech enthusiast and have been into car modifications for years. The material of spark plugs determines ignition efficiency. Copper has good conductivity but a short lifespan and is prone to carbon buildup; platinum adds a coating to the electrodes, making them wear-resistant and heat-resistant, ensuring smooth response during acceleration without hesitation; iridium has finer electrode tips, allowing more precise ignition of the air-fuel mixture, making it suitable for turbocharged engines to boost horsepower. Double platinum or iridium double-tip designs are used in high-performance cars and can last over 100,000 kilometers. The material should be chosen based on the vehicle manual's recommendations—don't blindly go for premium options. Matching the engine is key, or you'll waste money and damage the engine. For example, using iridium in a small-displacement engine is unnecessary and wasteful.

[MacRowan]

For cost-saving spark plug options, copper ones cost a few dozen yuan per set but need replacement every 20,000 km, making them not so cheap when including labor costs. Platinum plugs are more expensive but last up to 50,000 km, offering lower cost per kilometer. Iridium sets cost several hundred yuan but exceed 100,000 km in lifespan, ideal for long-distance driving without worries. For regular commuter cars, platinum plugs offer the best value—don't rush for iridium to avoid unnecessary spending. Regularly checking spark plug gaps is also crucial to prevent unstable ignition and excessive fuel consumption. Always have a mechanic confirm the model before replacement.