Kipinälähde

Kipinälähde, meaning "spark source" in Finnish, refers to a component or device that generates electrical sparks. These sparks are typically created by a sudden discharge of electrical energy across a gap. The primary function of a kipinälähde is to initiate a combustion process or to provide a temporary source of high-voltage electrical energy.

In internal combustion engines, a kipinälähde, commonly known as a spark plug, is crucial for igniting the fuel-air mixture. It receives a high-voltage pulse from the ignition system, which causes a spark to jump across the electrode gap, initiating combustion. This process is fundamental to the operation of gasoline engines.

Beyond automotive applications, kipinälähteet can be found in various other contexts. For example, they are used in gas stoves and lighters to ignite gas. In some industrial applications, controlled electrical sparks are used for processes like welding or cutting. The design and voltage requirements of a kipinälähde vary significantly depending on its intended use and the medium it is designed to ignite or interact with. The generation of the spark often involves a step-up transformer or a capacitor discharge circuit to achieve the necessary voltage.