Plasma jet ignition appts.

摘要

The appts. has a plug which has an electrode from which a high energy spark is generated. The spark causes hydrogen which is introduced into the plasma generation cavity by a fuel line to become plasma. The plasma generation cavity is defined by magnetic field generation device. The cavity has an inlet opening adjacent the plasma generation location and an outlet orifice. The plasma is ejected as a plasma jet from the cavity from the orifice. - The magnetic field generation device is disposed as a magnetic field coil wound about the cavity. The magnetic field is charged by the discharge of a capacitor at the time of the formation of the plasma in the cavity. The magnetic field accelerates the plasma out of the cavity through the orifice so that the plasma exits as a high velocity jet and achieves effective penetration. Timing devices are also included for timing the introduction of hydrogen into the cavity, the discharge of the plasma generating spark and the triggering of the magnetic field. (Dwg.1/2) EPAB- EP-172954 B A plasma ingnition appts. (1), for generating plasma and for propelling said plasma from said ignition appts. (10) for ignition external to said ignition appts., said ingnition appts. comprising: means defining a cavity (30); electrical energy discharge means (15) cooperatively arranged with said cavity (30) and arranged for generating an electrical energy discharge in said cavity (30), said electrical energy discharge being at a level sufficient to generate plasma within said cavity, characterised in that said electrical energy discharge is below a level at which the generated plasma is propelled from the cavity and capable of ignition external to the cavity; and in that the appts. (10) includes magnetic field generation means (33) establishing a magnetic field within said cavity (30), said magnetic field providing supplemental propelling froce on said generated plas, the strength of said magnetic field being predetermined based upon the energy level of said discharge and the geometry of said cavity so as to propel the generated plasma from the cavity for ignition external to the cavity, whereby electrode (19,21) erosion is minimised and ignition and flame propagation are enhanced.