IGNITION SYSTEM

PRESENTED BY:
Aakash Kumar Sasmal (24MEM5R01)
Anamika Anil C (24MEM5R03)
Anupam Sharma (24MEM5R04)
 INTRODUCTION

The ignition system is that part of

electrical system which carries electrical
current to spark plug where spark is
necessary to ignite the fuel- air mixture.

Fig 1: IGNITION SYSTEM

• From traditional mechanical
systems to advanced electronic
ignitions, the evolution of
ignition systems has
significantly enhanced engine
efficiency, performance, and
emissions control.
 REQUIREMENTS OF IGNITION SYSTEM

Regular and timed spark: Synchronized with cylinder-piston

position.
Strong spark: Sufficient to ignite air-fuel mixture.

Sufficient spark duration: To establish burning.

Resilience: Produce spark even with electrode shunts.

Energy efficiency: Minimal power consumption.

 REQUIREMENTS OF IGNITION SYSTEM

Durability: Service life equal to the engine.

Maintainability: Easy to service.

Radio interference-free: No radio noise.

Compactness: Light and small.

Adaptability: Suitable for mass production

 WORKING OF IGNITION SYSTEM

The ignition system in an internal combustion engine is

designed to generate a high-voltage electrical spark to ignite the
air-fuel mixture in the engine's cylinders at the correct time.
This spark ignites the mixture, causing a controlled explosion
that drives the pistons and ultimately powers the vehicle.
 WORKING OF IGNITION SYSTEM

The working principle of the ignition system involves

several steps, from turning the key to creating the spark.

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TqQE0xkCJ8c
 TURNING THE KEY OR PRESSING THE
IGNITION BUTTON
When the driver turns the
key or presses the start
button, it closes a circuit that
sends power from the car
battery to the ignition
system.
 LOW VOLTAGE CIRCUIT

The ignition system

starts with a low voltage
from the car's 12-volt
battery.
 LOW VOLTAGE CIRCUIT

 This current travels to the

Ignition coil, which serves as a
transformer
 IGNITION COIL: VOLTAGE
TRANSFORMATION
The Ignition coil is the heart of the ignition system and is
responsible for transforming the low voltage from the battery
into a much higher voltage (up to 40,000 volts or more).
This is necessary to create a spark capable of jumping the
gap at the spark plug.
 IGNITION COIL: VOLTAGE
TRANSFORMATION
Primary Winding: When
the current from the battery
flows through the primary
winding of the ignition coil,
it creates a magnetic field.
 IGNITION COIL: VOLTAGE
TRANSFORMATION

 Secondary Winding: When the primary circuit is broken

(by an ignition control module or points in older systems),
the magnetic field collapses, inducing a very high voltage in
the secondary winding of the coil.
Fig : Ignition coil
 DISTRIBUTOR (FOR OLDER SYSTEMS)
 In older vehicles with mechanical ignition systems, the
distributor directs the high-voltage current from the
ignition coil to the correct spark plug at the right time.
 This is controlled by a rotating arm (rotor) inside the
distributor, which connects to each spark plug in sequence.
 DISTRIBUTOR (FOR OLDER SYSTEMS)

 In modern systems (Distributor-less Ignition Systems or

Coil-on-Plug), the distributor is replaced by individual
ignition coils that fire directly for each cylinder.
 IGNITION TIMING

 Ignition timing is critical for engine performance.

 The ignition system must generate a spark at the precise

moment when the air-fuel mixture is fully compressed inside

the cylinder.
 IGNITION TIMING

 In most engines, the spark occurs just before the piston reaches
the top of its compression stroke (known as Top Dead Center
or TDC).
 Timing is adjusted based on engine speed, load, and
temperature to ensure optimal combustion and prevent
knocking (premature detonation of the fuel).
 SPARK PLUG

 The primary function of SPARK PLUG is SPARK

GENERATION.
 The high-voltage current travels through high-tension
cables (or directly from coil packs in modern systems) to the
spark plug.
 SPARK PLUG

 The voltage jumps the gap between the center electrode and
the ground electrode of the spark plug.
 This jump produces a spark that ignites the compressed air-
fuel mixture in the combustion chamber.
 COMBUSTION AND POWER STROKE

The air-fuel mixture ignites,

causing a controlled
explosion that forces the
piston down, generating the
power that moves the
vehicle.
 MODERN IGNITION SYSTEMS

Electronic Control (ECU) : Modern vehicles use an Electronic

Control Unit (ECU) to control the ignition timing based on
sensor input (such as crankshaft position, engine temperature,
and throttle position). The ECU calculates the optimal moment to
fire each spark plug for maximum efficiency and power.
 MODERN IGNITION SYSTEMS

Coil-on-Plug Systems (COP) : In modern engines, each spark

plug has its own coil mounted directly on top of it, eliminating
the need for high-tension cables or distributors. These coil-on-
plug (COP) systems offer more reliable spark delivery and
improved engine performance.
COMPONENTS
OF IGNITION
SYSTEM
Fig : Labelled diagram of ignition
system
 BATTERY
Functions
The battery provides electrical
energy for the ignition system.

Stores chemical energy and

converts it to electrical energy.

Fig : Battery
 BATTERY

Function
In 12V automotive systems, it
powers the ignition coil.

Ensures consistent ignition and

smooth engine performance.
Fig : Battery
 IGNITION COIL

An Ignition coil is a crucial

component in internal combustion
engines. Its primary function is to
transform the low voltage from the
battery into a high voltage that is
necessary to create the spark that
ignites the fuel-air mixture in the
Fig : Ignition COIL
combustion chamber.
 WORKING PRINCIPLE

Primary Winding: This

winding is connected to the
battery and receives a low
voltage current.
 WORKING PRINCIPLE

Secondary Winding: This

winding has many more turns
than the primary winding and is
wound around a soft iron core.
 WORKING PRINCIPLE

Interrupter: A mechanical or
electronic switch that
periodically interrupts the
current flow in the primary
winding.

Fig : Mechanical Interrupter

 WORKING PRINCIPLE
Electromagnetic Induction: When the current in the
primary winding is interrupted, a rapidly changing magnetic
field is created around the core.

High Voltage Generation: This changing magnetic field

induces a high voltage in the secondary winding due to the
large number of turns.
 TYPES OF IGNITION COILS
Conventional Coils: These coils are often used in older vehicles
and have a mechanical interrupter.
Electronic Coils: These coils use electronic circuitry to control
the current flow in the primary winding, resulting in better
performance and reliability.
Individual Coil Ignition (ICI): In this system, each cylinder has
its own ignition coil, improving performance and reducing
emission
 FACTORS AFFECTING IGNITION COIL PERFORMANCE
Coil Quality: The quality of the materials used in the coil can affect its
performance and longevity.

Ignition System Components: The overall health of the ignition

system, including the spark plugs, wires, and distributor, can impact the
ignition coil's performance.

Engine Conditions: Factors like engine temperature, fuel quality, and

air-fuel ratio can influence the ignition coil's operation.
 IGNITION SWITCH

An ignition switch is a crucial

component in a vehicle's electrical
system.
It acts as a control centre, regulating
the flow of electricity to various
components, particularly the ignition Fig 6: Ignition switch

system.
FUNCTIONS OF AN IGNITION SWITCH

Power On/Off: The primary function is to turn the vehicle's

electrical system on or off.

Ignition Circuit Activation: When the switch is turned to

the "On" position, it completes the circuit to the ignition coil,
initiating the ignition process.
FUNCTIONS OF AN IGNITION SWITCH

Accessory Circuit Activation: Some ignition switches also

control accessory circuits, such as headlights, radio, and
power windows.

Security Features: In modern vehicles, the ignition switch

may be integrated with security systems like immobilizers to
prevent unauthorized starting.
 TYPES OF IGNITION SWITCHES

Mechanical Switches: These

are the traditional type, using a
mechanical key to turn on and
off.

Fig : Mechanical Ignition switch

 TYPES OF IGNITION SWITCHES

Electronic Switches: These

use electronic components and
may require a key fob or smart
key for activation

Fig : Electronic Ignition switch

 COMMON IGNITION SWITCH
PROBLEMS
• Worn Contacts: Over time, the contacts within the switch
can become worn or corroded, leading to poor electrical
connection.
• Faulty Solenoid: In electronic switches, the solenoid may
malfunction, preventing the switch from turning on or off
properly.
• Security System Issues: Problems with the vehicle's security
system can sometimes affect the ignition switch's operation.
 DISTRIBUTOR

A distributor is a mechanical or
electronic device used in internal
combustion engines to distribute the
high-voltage current from the
ignition coil to the spark plugs in
the correct firing order. Fig 8`: Distributor
 KEY FUNCTIONS
• Sequencing: Ensures that each spark plug receives the high
voltage at the appropriate time, corresponding to the engine's
firing order.

• Rotor Rotation: A rotating component within the distributor,

typically driven by the camshaft, directs the high voltage to
the correct spark plug terminal.
 KEY FUNCTIONS

Contact Points: In mechanical distributors, contact points

provide a path for the high voltage to flow from the coil to the
rotor.

Vacuum Advance: Some distributors have a vacuum advance

mechanism that adjusts the ignition timing based on engine
load and speed.
 TYPES OF DISTRIBUTORS

 Mechanical Distributors: These are the traditional type,

using contact points and a mechanical rotor.

 Electronic Distributors: These use electronic components

to control the ignition timing and eliminate the need for
contact points.
Fig 8: Mechanical Distributor Fig 8: Electronic Distributor
 COMMON DISTRIBUTOR PROBLEMS
Worn Contact Points: In mechanical distributors, the contact
points can wear out over time, leading to poor electrical
connection.

Rotor Wear: The rotor can become worn or damaged, affecting

the distribution of the high voltage.

Vacuum Advance Issues: The vacuum advance mechanism may

malfunction, causing incorrect ignition timing.
 SPARK PLUG

A spark plug is a crucial component

in internal combustion engines.
 Its primary function is to create the
spark that ignites the fuel-air mixture
in the combustion chamber, initiating
the power stroke.
Fig : Spark plug
 COMPONENTS OF A SPARK PLUG

 Electrode: A metal tip that carries

the high voltage and creates the
spark.
 Ground Electrode: A metal
electrode that completes the
electrical circuit.
Fig : Components of a typical spark plug
 COMPONENTS OF A SPARK PLUG

Insulator: A ceramic material that prevents the spark from

arcing to the engine block.

Seal: A gasket that prevents combustion gases from leaking

into the engine
 TYPES OF SPARK PLUGS

Spark Plugs: These are the most common type, used in a

variety of engines.
Platinum Spark Plugs: Have a platinum or platinum-
iridium electrode, which is more durable and provides a
longer service life.
 TYPES OF SPARK PLUGS

Iridium Spark Plugs: Similar to

platinum spark plugs, but with an
even finer electrode, resulting in
a stronger spark.

Fig : Bosch Iridium Spark Plug

 TYPES OF SPARK PLUGS

• Copper Core Spark Plugs:

Used in some older engines,
have a copper core electrode.

Fig : Copper Core Spark Plugs

 COMMON SPARK PLUG PROBLEMS

Fouling: Carbon buildup on the electrodes, preventing the

spark from forming.

Pre-ignition: The spark occurs too early, causing engine

pinging or detonation.
 COMMON SPARK PLUG PROBLEMS

Misfiring: The spark plug fails to ignite the fuel-air mixture,

resulting in engine misfires.

Erosion: The electrodes wear down over time, affecting the

spark's intensity.
CONVENTIONAL
IGNITION
SYSTEMS
 BATTERY OR COIL IGNITION SYSTEM
MAIN COMPONENTS

 6 or 12 V battery  Capacitor

 Ammeter  Distributor rotor

 Ignition switch
 Distributor contact points
 Step up transformer
 Spark plugs
 Contact breaker
 PRIMARY CIRCUIT

It consists of 6 or 12 V battery, ammeter, ignition switch,

Primary winding has 200-300 turns of 20 SWG (Sharps Wire
Gauge) gauge wire, contact breaker, capacitor.
 SECONDARY CIRCUIT

 It consists of secondary winding.

 Secondary winding consists of about 21000 turns of 40
(SWG) gauge wire.
 SECONDARY CIRCUIT

 Bottom end of which is connected to bottom end of primary

and top end of secondary winding is connected to center of
distributor rotor.
 Distributor rotors rotate and make contacts with contact

points and are connected to spark plugs which are fitted in

cylinder heads(engine earth).

 WORKING PRINCIPLE

 When the ignition switch is closed and engine in cranked,

as soon as the contact breaker closes, a low voltage
current will flow through the primary winding.
 It is also to be noted that the contact beaker cam opens and
closes the circuit 4-times (for 4 cylinders) in one
revolution.
 WORKING PRINCIPLE

 When the contact breaker opens the contact, the magnetic

field begins to collapse. Because of this collapsing
magnetic field, current will be induced in the secondary
winding. And because of more turns (@ 21000 turns) of
secondary, voltage goes unto 28000-30000 volts.
 MAGNETO IGNITION SYSTEM

 Rotating Magnets  Contact Breaker

 Primary Winding  Distributor
 Secondary Winding  Ignition Switch
 Fixed Armature  Spark Plug
 Condenser
 WORKING PRINCIPLE
In this case magneto will produce and supply the required
current to the primary winding.
 In this case as shown, we can have rotating magneto with
fixed coil or rotating coil with fixed magneto for producing
and supplying current to primary, remaining arrangement is
same as that of a battery ignition system.
MODERN IGNITION SYSTEM
 ELECTRONIC IGNITION SYSTEM

 In an internal combustion engine, the electronic ignition

system is used to ignite air-fuel.
 Basically, this provides heat in form of spark for ignition.
This system works inside the engine for creating a spark in
the spark plug.
 ELECTRONIC IGNITION SYSTEM

In this the low voltage is step-up to high voltage by electro

magnetic induction effect is controlled by Electronic Control
Unit (ECU)
 PARTS OF ELECTRONIC IGNITION
SYSTEM

Electronic Ignition System consists of following main Parts:

Battery  Ignition Coil
Ignition Switch  Ignition Distributor

Electronic Control Unit  Spark Plug

 NEED FOR ELECTRONIC IGNITION
SYSTEM

 There are certain limitations with the high-speed engine as it

is less efficient, because of that the electronic ignition system
is introduced which fulfills all the requirements for an
efficient engine.
 NEED FOR ELECTRONIC IGNITION
SYSTEM

 In multi cylinder engine controlled spark timing is necessary

for high speed which is easily obtained by electronic ignition
system.
 APPLICATION OF ELECTRONIC
IGNITION SYSTEM

 It is mostly used in modern day vehicles and hypercars.

 It is mostly used in Audi, Mahindra XUV, KTM bikes,

Ducati, and many more.

 ADVANTAGES OF ELECTRONIC
IGNITION SYSTEM

 These are low maintenance systems as compared to others

like Battery Ignition System, and Magneto Ignition System.

 It has no moving parts because it is controlled by the

electronic control unit(ECV).

 ADVANTAGES OF ELECTRONIC
IGNITION SYSTEM

 Emission is less as compared to other means.

 It increases the efficiency of the engine and also it is fuel-

efficient.
 ADVANTAGES OF ELECTRONIC
IGNITION SYSTEM

 It is more accurate as compared to the magneto system.

 The vehicles having this system have a long life and also

reliable.
 DISADVANTAGES OF ELECTRONIC
IGNITION SYSTEM

The main disadvantage of Electronic Ignition System is that

this system is very expensive because it uses
Electronic Control Unit (ECU)

Coil-on-Plug Systems (COP)

So everyone cannot afford the vehicles having an Electronic

Ignition System.
 MECHANICAL vs ELECTRONIC
IGNITION SYSTEM
FEATURE MECHANICAL ELECTRONIC IGNITION
IGNITION SYSTEM SYSTEM

Basic Transistorized circuit, capacitors,

Components Contact breaker points,
sensors, electronic control unit
distributor, condenser
(ECU)

Ignition Manually adjusted or Controlled electronically via

Control mechanically controlled sensors and ECU

Less accurate due to More accurate and consistent

Accuracy
mechanical wear and tear timing
 MECHANICAL vs ELECTRONIC
IGNITION SYSTEM
FEATURE MECHANICAL ELECTRONIC IGNITION
IGNITION SYSTEM SYSTEM

Requires frequent
Low maintenance; no mechanical
Maintenance maintenance (breaker point
parts to wear out
wear, distributor cap)

Less efficient due to More efficient, leading to improved

Fuel Efficiency
inconsistent spark fuel economy

Initially cheaper but requires Higher initial cost but more cost-
Cost
more frequent replacements effective in the long run
 MECHANICAL vs ELECTRONIC
IGNITION SYSTEM
FEATURE MECHANICAL ELECTRONIC
IGNITION SYSTEM IGNITION SYSTEM

Prone to wear and requires Long-lasting and more

Durability
regular servicing durable

Needs periodic adjustment Automatically adjusted

Timing Adjustment
(mechanically adjusted) based on engine conditions
Lower spark energy, which Higher and more consistent
Spark Energy can lead to inefficient spark energy, leading to
combustion better combustion
 REFERENCES
Joseph Heitner, Automotive Mechanics, CBS publications,
Second edition, 2015.
Automobile engineering, Dr. Kirpal Singh

Ignition systems in automobiles, Rickramjeet Singh

https://www.howacarworks.com/basics/how-the-ignition-
system-works
THANK YOU