Abstract

The requirements and challenges when designing a spark ignition system for hydrogen SI-ICE applications is presented. The ignition system needs to provide higher than usual voltages to provide robust ignition and sparks with low energy to minimize the sparkplug electrode wear, which are contradictory requirements when using a basic inductive ignition system. A general overview of spark ignition system design is presented. The features and capabilities of a system using a capacitive spark energy storage and an ignition control module that enables control of the available spark voltage, the duration and the current is presented. Results from extensive measurements heavy duty SI-ICE show that robust ignition is achieved at medium and high load using the shortest possible spark duration (∼40 μs) and a total spark energy of 2–5 mJ. A basic inductive ignition system typically delivers spark durations of 1500 μs and an energy of ∼90 mJ under the same condition. Control of spark characteristics can reduce the electrode wear significantly and reduce the electrode temperature, reducing the risk for preignition. The results apply also to other renewable and alternative fuels, such as biogas and hythane.

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