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Laser Igniters Could Spell the End for the Humble Spark Plug

Posted April 22, 2011 10:07 AM

From Gizmag:

Internal combustion engines are likely to remain in widespread use for some time yet, but it's possible that we may be bidding adieu to that most iconic of engine parts, the spark plug. Researchers from Japan's National Institutes of Natural Sciences (NINS) are creating laser igniters that could one day replace spark plugs in automobile engines. Not only would these lasers allow for better performance and fuel economy, but cars using them would also create less harmful emissions.

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#1

Re: Laser Igniters Could Spell the End for the Humble Spark Plug

04/22/2011 10:38 PM

"Engines would produce less NOx if they burnt more air and less fuel, but they would require the plugs to produce higher-energy sparks in order to do so. "

Yeah, here's an author who understands what they are writing. (bold was my emphasis)

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#2

Re:

04/23/2011 1:34 PM

Laser Igniters Could Spell the End for the Humble Spark Plug

Somebody has been smoking something again. Has anyone here checked their spark plugs lately? Look at the residues on the plugs and then tell me you want an OPTICAL sensitive igniter. Sorry, Charlie, not on petroleum-based fuel. I'm betting on one of several catalytic igniters.

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#3
In reply to #2

Re:

05/01/2011 2:21 PM

What does the residues have to do with it? I cannot follow your reasoning at all.....

Since we already have lasers that can etch/cut metal, I cannot for the life of me imagine why they cannot fire through a bit of grime!!!

Maybe I have misunderstood you, please be so kind as to explain your thoughts.

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