[cgrey8]

Anybody else read articles about a new ignition system based on plasma arc technology?


Read more here:
Forget Spark Plugs: Plasma-Based Ignition Makes Engines More Efficient

I was just curious if anybody else has heard about this or has had any experience with this? But more importantly, even if you can "convert" to this system, is it any better than an aftermarket ignition box with traditional plugs? This may be an "upgrade" to stock ignition, but if it isn't really better than a plain-ole ignition box, then there's really nothing to get excited about for guys in the aftermarket. The corona in the picture does look neat though.

[EDS50]

This quote right here scares me a lil; "ACIS also allows engines to run leaner, increasing exhaust gas recirculation and cylinder compression to produce a lower emissions as well." Lean is mean but too lean is gonna be green coming out of your pocket and your headgasket on power adder applications unless the end user has tuning capabilities of some sort to either add fuel, or reduce spark or control boost. That is just my observation.

[cgrey8]

That's only for cruising RPM/Loads. Once you get into heavy load, the computers would enrich like they always do.

[EDS50]

That's only for cruising RPM/Loads. Once you get into heavy load, the computers would enrich like they always do.

Yes but not on older applications where people might retrofit them.

[cgrey8]

Retrofitting an engine with this type spark plug wouldn't run your engine lean or increase the EGR flow. The new technology simply allows for that. But if you did the retrofit the ignition system and you could tune to take advantage of lean-burn, then why not? Again, lean only at cruising RPM/Loads...

[Jetfast50]

this is the same kind of ignition used on the infamous "water car" to split the molecules and light off the hydrogen. plasma ignition.

[decipha]

something that might be worth considering is the context in which they are using the word 'lean'

if the burn is that much more intense chances are its combusting more of the fuel in the chamber and less unburnt fuel is being passed out the exhaust, this might be their reference to 'lean' burn

since i have no idea how efficient a standard ceramic plug is i'll venture a guess and say just for example (not actual) that they can only ignite/burn 75% if the fuel during combustion, where as an arc may burn/ignite 92%

the excess fuel that previously was being unburned and passed out the exhaust, is now reduced as it is now being burned, i could see this warranting a 'lean' out of the mix from the manufacturer's stand point

its not that the engine is actually running leaner, its just consuming less fuel since its burning more

i don't know just a thought

[Jetfast50]

you are correct.