Zündverteilereinheiten

Zündverteilereinheiten, often referred to as distributors, are a key component in older internal combustion engines. Their primary function is to distribute the high-voltage electrical current generated by the ignition coil to the correct spark plug at the precise moment required for ignition. This process is crucial for the combustion cycle of gasoline engines.

The distributor typically consists of a rotor, a distributor cap, points (in older mechanical systems), and a condenser. The rotor spins inside the distributor cap, which has terminals connected to each spark plug wire. As the rotor spins, it passes by each terminal in sequence, allowing the high voltage to jump across the gap and send a spark to the corresponding spark plug. In mechanical ignition systems, a set of breaker points inside the distributor open and close to interrupt the primary circuit of the ignition coil, causing the high voltage to be generated. A condenser is used in conjunction with the points to reduce arcing and improve the spark's intensity.

Modern vehicles have largely replaced mechanical distributors with electronic ignition systems, such as distributorless ignition systems (DIS) or coil-on-plug (COP) systems. These electronic systems offer greater precision, reliability, and reduced maintenance compared to their mechanical predecessors. However, understanding the function of a Zündverteilereinheit remains important for comprehending the historical development of automotive ignition technology and for working on classic or older vehicles.