Start and Ignition Assist Systems

Abstract

Early vehicles with diesel engines could only be started at low temperatures with intense smoke formation accompanied by loud knocking noises. Glow and engine starting times of several minutes were common. Therefore, startability was and is an important goal of engine manufacturers and suppliers’ development activities. The refinement of suitable start assist systems and their adaptation to engine characteristics has led to crucial advances in diesel engine starting and cold running performance. Sheathed-element glow plugs (GLP) are used for cars (typically with displacements of less than 1 l/cylinder) to assist engine starting and running at low outside temperatures. Intake air glow systems such as glow plugs, intake air heaters or flame starting systems are used for commercial vehicles with larger displacements.