Selection of ion sensor operating parameters in quasi-static conditions

Abstract

Evaluating combustion quality using sensors that allow continuous assessment of the process is one of the modern methods of engine sensory diagnostics. The proper calibration of such systems is a task that requires many studies to determine the conditions and quantities affecting the process. The analysis of significance of quantities related to the ionization signal was carried out in the article. The magnitude of the voltage generating the electric field, the type of spark plug used, the distance of the spark plug electrodes and the dynamic factor – spark plug operating temperature – were all tested. The tests were carried out using a CNG burner (with an excess air ratio of lambda = 1) and four spark plugs. As a result of the ionization signal research, the following relationships were obtained: regarding the impact of the sensor position on the amount of generated voltage (the smaller the distance the greater the value of the signal), the effect of temperature on the sensor resistance (non-linear relationship: increase in temperature decreases resistance, with R2 = 0.9997) effect of system voltage on the ionization signal (linear relationship: voltage increase increases the ionization current signal with a determination coefficient of R2 = 0.9803). In addition, it was found that using an iridium electrode candle had the best effects on the ionization current, regardless of the electrode’s geometrical parameters.