Spark Plug Leak Testing

ATEQ is Available to Provide Consulting and Leak and Flow Testers For Automotive Spark Plug Leak Testing Applications.

A spark plug is a device in a spark-ignition engine that delivers an electric current from the ignition to the combustion chamber. It contains the combustion pressure in the engine while it uses an electrical spark to ignite the compressed fuel/air mixture. A spark plug is composed of a metal threaded shell that is electrically isolated from a central electrode by a ceramic insulator. The central electrode is connected by an insulated wire to the ignition coil and may contain a resistor and it protrudes though the porcelain insulator into the combustion chamber. Then engine’s cylinder head connects to the spark plug’s metal shell so it is electrically grounded.

It is important that the spark plug does not leak or it will not be able to produce the necessary voltage required for the vehicle to run efficiently. If there is a crack in the ceramic resistor or metal shell, the copper electrode or the ground electrode could become compromised. Oil or moisture could leak into a spark plug, causing the driver to experience weaker engine performance, blue exhaust coming out of the tailpipe or more frequent engine misfires.

To leak test the final assembly of the spark plug, an indirect leak test method can be used. The process can be automated into a production line at a fast rate using a PLC by putting the spark plug in a custom test chamber fixture so look for a pressure rise in the chamber if there is a leak at the outlet of the spark plug.

ATEQ has developed solutions for hundreds of different automotive leak testing applications for well known OEM manufacturers over the last 40 years. Whether you are leak testing spark plugs, shock absorbers, manifolds, full engines, EV battery packs, catheters, pacemakers, or a smartphone, ATEQ can work with you to provide efficient leak testers and develop integrated shock absorber production leak and flow testing solutions.