Glow Plug on Diesel Engines: Types and Functions Explained

Diesel engines, unlike gasoline counterparts, rely on glow plugs for ignition, especially in cold conditions. These small but vital components preheat the combustion chamber, ensuring a smooth and reliable start. BERU, a leading manufacturer, offers a diverse range of innovative glow plugs, each engineered for specific diesel applications. Let’s delve into the types of glow plugs available and their unique features.

Pressure Sensor Glow Plugs (PSG): Optimizing Diesel Performance and Emissions

Pressure Sensor Glow Plugs (PSG) represent a leap in diesel engine technology. These advanced glow plugs go beyond simple heating; they actively monitor and optimize the combustion process. Integrated sensors within the PSG measure the pressure inside the combustion chamber and relay this information to the engine control unit (ECU). This real-time feedback loop allows the ECU to precisely control the glow plug’s heating pattern, leading to significantly reduced particle emissions. By optimizing combustion, PSG technology helps diesel engines meet and exceed stringent emission standards.

Key features of Pressure Sensor Glow Plugs include:

  • Piezoresistive Sensor Principle: For accurate pressure measurement.
  • Flexible Heating Rod: Ensures effective pressure transmission to the sensor.
  • Robust Sealing Element: Provides durability in harsh combustion environments.
  • Miniaturized Integrated Electronics: Compact design for seamless integration.
  • Calibrated and Customer-Specific Program: Tailored performance for various engine types.
  • Integrated Concentric Automotive Plug: For reliable electrical connection.
  • Wide Operating Temperature Range: Functionality from -40°C to 140°C (peaking at 150°C).
  • Broad Pressure Range: Measurement capabilities from 0 to 200 bar (max 210 bar).

Ceramic Glow Plugs (CGP): Extreme Heat for Superior Diesel Start-Up

For diesel engines demanding rapid and intense heat, Ceramic Glow Plugs (CGP) are the answer. Leveraging advanced ceramic technology, BERU CGPs achieve an exceptionally high maximum temperature of 1300°C in under 3 seconds. This rapid heating capability translates to faster, more reliable diesel engine starts, even in extreme cold. The intense heat generated by CGPs also promotes more complete combustion, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and reduced engine wear over time.

High-Tech Steel Glow Plugs: Durable and Efficient Heating Solutions for Diesel Engines

BERU high-tech steel glow plugs offer a versatile and robust solution for various diesel glow plug technologies, primarily two-phase and three-phase systems.

  • Three-Phase Technology (Types GE & GN): These glow plugs employ a sophisticated three-phase heating process to maximize diesel combustion efficiency. This involves:
    • Pre-heating: Warming the combustion chamber before ignition.
    • Heating During Starting: Maintaining optimal temperature during the start-up phase.
    • Post-heating: Continuing to heat for approximately 3 minutes after starting.

This comprehensive heating strategy ensures more complete and quieter combustion, significantly reducing exhaust smoke (by up to 40% during cold starts) and improving overall engine performance, even at temperatures as low as -30°C. Three-phase glow plugs are designed for reliable and consistent diesel starts in demanding conditions.

  • Two-Phase Technology (Type GV): Designed to meet the pre-heating and heating demands of older diesel engines, two-phase glow plugs (Type GV) provide reliable cold starting with a pre-heating time of just 5-7 seconds. These robust glow plugs are a dependable option for ensuring older diesel engines start quickly and efficiently.

Commercial Vehicle Glow Plugs: Tailored Solutions for Heavy-Duty Diesel Applications

BERU extends its glow plug expertise to commercial vehicles, offering specialized solutions for vans, trucks, and industrial diesel engines.

  • Flame Start System (Type GF): The Flame Start System (Type GF) delivers reliable cold-starting performance for commercial diesel vehicles, even in very low temperatures. Available in 12V and 24V versions, this system features a short pre-heating time and extended post-flame time, ensuring consistent starts in demanding commercial applications.

  • Glow Plugs for Auxiliary Heaters (Type GH): For enhanced cabin comfort in cold weather, BERU offers glow plugs specifically designed for auxiliary heaters in both petrol and diesel vehicles. These (Type GH) glow plugs provide additional warmth, ensuring driver and passenger comfort in icy conditions.

  • Glow Plugs with Wire Filaments (Type GD): Built for durability and resilience, Glow plugs with wire filaments (Type GD) are designed for older diesel vehicles and heavy machinery like tractors, tow trucks, and construction equipment. These robust glow plugs utilize a wire filament heating element and are engineered to withstand heavy vibrations and demanding operating conditions.

In conclusion, selecting the correct glow plug type is crucial for optimal diesel engine performance, emissions control, and reliable starting, particularly in cold climates. BERU’s comprehensive range of glow plugs offers tailored solutions for diverse diesel applications, from passenger cars to heavy-duty commercial vehicles, ensuring efficient and dependable diesel operation.

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