Dwell Time in Non-Contact Breaker Points Ignition Systems

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

Dwell time in non-contact breaker points ignition systems refers to the duration the ignition coil is energized, specifically the time the primary circuit remains closed. This time is crucial for allowing the ignition coil to fully charge before discharging to create a spark. Controlled by the engine control unit (ECU), dwell time is typically measured in milliseconds and varies based on engine speed and load. Proper dwell time ensures optimal spark strength, enhancing engine performance and preventing ignition coil overheating.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of electronic ignition systems
  • Familiarity with engine control units (ECUs)
  • Knowledge of ignition coil functionality
  • Basic principles of spark timing in internal combustion engines
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the role of the ECU in controlling ignition timing
  • Learn about the effects of varying dwell time on engine performance
  • Explore diagnostic tools for measuring dwell time in ignition systems
  • Investigate common issues related to ignition coil overheating
USEFUL FOR

Automotive engineers, mechanics, and enthusiasts interested in optimizing ignition system performance and understanding electronic ignition technology.

Andy
Messages
76
Reaction score
14
Hey people, been getting very annoyed for the past few hours over this one been looking through all my textbooks and all over the net but can't find a decent explanation of dwell time. Here's my question, Explain dwell time in the context of electronic ignition systems (non-contact breaker points system)

Need help asap before i smash this keyboard through the monitor.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
No worries people its all sorted, using a different computer now.
 


Hey there,

Dwell time refers to the amount of time that the ignition coil in a non-contact breaker points ignition system is energized, or the duration that the primary circuit is closed. In simpler terms, it is the time that the ignition coil is charged before it discharges to create a spark.

In electronic ignition systems, the dwell time is controlled by the engine control unit (ECU) and is typically measured in milliseconds. The ECU uses various inputs, such as engine speed and load, to determine the optimal dwell time for each spark plug.

The purpose of dwell time is to ensure that the ignition coil has enough time to fully charge before it discharges, producing a strong spark. If the dwell time is too short, the spark may be weak, resulting in poor engine performance. On the other hand, if the dwell time is too long, the ignition coil may overheat, leading to premature failure.

I hope this helps clarify the concept of dwell time in non-contact breaker points ignition systems. Good luck with your research and please don't smash your keyboard!
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 17 ·
Replies
17
Views
10K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
23K
Replies
12
Views
4K
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
737
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
1K
Replies
17
Views
4K
  • · Replies 10 ·
Replies
10
Views
3K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
Replies
6
Views
3K