Understanding the Working of the Conventional Ignition System on Motor Vehicles
YOGYAKARTA - The way the conventional ignition system works is an important basis for understanding the combustion process of gasoline engines, especially in old vehicles that still rely on mechanical systems.
Although it is an old technology, this system is still widely used and studied because its construction is simple and easy to maintain by vehicle owners. Reported by VOI from the Champion Autoparts website, here are some things you need to understand:
Understanding Conventional Ignition SystemConventional ignition system is an ignition system that uses a mechanical component in the form of a platinum (breaker point) to break and connect the electric current.
In simple terms, this system is tasked with producing a spark in the spark plug so that the air and fuel mixture can burn inside the engine cylinder.
Components of Conventional Ignition SystemSome of the main components in a conventional ignition system include the battery, ignition key, ignition coil, platinum, condenser, distributor, high voltage cable, and spark plug.
All these components work in sequence to produce a timely spark.
How Conventional Ignition Systems WorkThe way the conventional ignition system works is divided into two electrical circuits, namely the primary circuit and the secondary circuit.
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The primary circuit carries a low-voltage electric current from the battery. When the ignition key is turned to the ON position, the current flows towards the primary winding of the coil through the platinum which is in a closed state. Well, this current flow forms a magnetic field around the ignition coil.
Then when the engine is spinning, the distributor shaft rotates and opens the platinum suddenly. When the platinum is open, the current in the primary circuit is interrupted and the magnetic field in the coil collapses quickly.
Then the condenser in the primary circuit serves to absorb the current surge and prevent sparks on the platinum, as well as accelerating the collapse of the magnetic field.
The collapse of this magnetic field will produce high voltage on the secondary winding of the coil. This high voltage is passed through the coil cable to the distributor, then passed to the spark plug according to the ignition sequence.
Then the spark that appears at the end of the spark plug burns the air and fuel mixture inside the cylinder, so that the engine can work.
After that, the platinum closes again, the primary current flows again, a magnetic field is formed again, and this cycle is repeated for the next cylinder. This process occurs very quickly, even in the order of milliseconds.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Conventional Ignition SystemConventional ignition systems have the advantages of simple construction, easyrepair, and relatively cheap maintenance costs. This system is also suitable forbasic automotive learning.
However, this system has drawbacks, such as a platinum component that is easy to wear and requires regular adjustment. In addition, the ignition performance tends to be less stable at high engine speeds.
Compared to electronic ignition and distributorless systems, conventional ignition systems still rely on mechanical components. Modern systems offer more precise ignition, minimal maintenance, and stable performance, but repair costs tend to be more expensive than conventional systems.
In addition, the understanding of the conventional system makes it easier for novice mechanics to diagnose ignition problems before switching to more modern and complex ignition system technology.
Understanding how a conventional ignition system works helps vehicle owners recognize the combustion process of the engine in a comprehensive manner. Although it is an old technology, this system is still relevant as the basis of automotive science and maintenance of gasoline-powered engines.