tændingspunkt

Tændingspunkt, often translated as ignition point or firing point, refers to the specific moment or position within an engine's cycle when the spark plug ignites the air-fuel mixture. This precise timing is crucial for efficient combustion and optimal engine performance. In internal combustion engines, particularly those operating on the Otto cycle, the spark plug must fire at a calculated point in the compression stroke, just before the piston reaches top dead center.

The exact tændingspunkt is determined by several factors. Engine speed (RPM) is a significant variable, as higher RPMs require the spark to occur earlier in the stroke to allow sufficient time for combustion to complete before the exhaust stroke begins. Engine load also influences the ideal timing. Under heavy load, the mixture burns slower, necessitating an earlier spark. Conversely, lighter loads might benefit from a slightly retarded timing.

Modern engines utilize sophisticated electronic control units (ECUs) to precisely manage the tændingspunkt. These ECUs receive input from various sensors, including crankshaft position, camshaft position, throttle position, and manifold absolute pressure. Based on this data, the ECU continuously adjusts the ignition timing to achieve the best balance of power, fuel economy, and emissions control under all operating conditions. Older engines might have used mechanical distributors with vacuum and centrifugal advance mechanisms to achieve similar, though less precise, timing adjustments. An improperly set tændingspunkt can lead to poor performance, knocking or pinging (detonation), increased fuel consumption, and potential engine damage.