Aircraft Ignition Systems Flashcards
The ignition system provides the spark that ignites the fuel-air mixture in reciprocating engines. Unlike automotive engines that use battery-powered ignition, aircraft engines use magnetos — self-contained generators that produce spark independent of the aircraft electrical system. This redundancy ensures the engine continues running even if the electrical system fails.
The FAA Powerplant exam covers magneto operation, magneto timing, spark plug types and heat ranges, ignition harnesses, and the starter system. These flashcards cover the components and concepts you need to know.
What You Need to Know
- Magnetos: self-contained ignition generators (no external power needed)
- Two magnetos per engine: provides redundancy (left and right)
- Magneto components: rotating magnet, primary/secondary coil, breaker points, condenser
- E-gap (external gap): point where the magnetic flux changes most rapidly
- Spark plug types: massive electrode and fine wire (iridium/platinum)
- Spark plug heat range: cold plugs dissipate heat faster (high-power engines)
- Ignition harness: shielded high-tension leads that carry voltage to spark plugs
- Bendix and Slick are the two major magneto manufacturers
Why This Topic Appears on FAA Exams
Ignition system knowledge is tested because ignition failure can cause engine stoppage. Mechanics must understand magneto operation, timing procedures, and spark plug inspection. The exam verifies you can identify components, understand timing concepts (E-gap), and know maintenance procedures.
Sample Flashcards
Tap any card to reveal the answer. These are just a sample — the full deck is available inside the study platform.
Why do aircraft reciprocating engines use magnetos instead of battery ignition?
Why are there two magnetos on each engine cylinder?
What is E-gap (external gap) in a magneto?
What is the difference between a hot and cold spark plug?
Study Tips
Focus on magneto operation: the rotating magnet induces current in the primary coil, the breaker points interrupt the circuit, and the collapsing field induces high voltage in the secondary coil. Remember E-gap — this is the optimal point for the breaker to open (maximum flux change). Know spark plug heat ranges: cold plugs for high-power (dissipate heat fast), hot plugs for low-power (retain heat to prevent fouling).
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Related Topics
Frequently Asked Questions
A rotating magnet induces a current in the primary coil. When the breaker points open (at E-gap), the primary current is interrupted, causing the magnetic field to collapse rapidly. This induces a very high voltage in the secondary coil (through transformer action), which is sent to the spark plug to create the spark. A condenser prevents arcing across the points.
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