An electronic ignition igniter operates by taking standard AC power and converting it into a pulsed DC signal using high-speed electronics. This process is the foundation for generating the high voltage needed for ignition.
The Process: From Power to Preparation
Electronic igniters are designed to efficiently manage electrical power to create the necessary conditions for ignition. The process described in the reference outlines the initial stages of how the igniter prepares the incoming power:
- Receiving Power: Electronic igniters are powered by 120 VAC (Alternating Current), the standard household voltage.
- Converting to DC: Inside the igniter, circuitry converts this incoming AC power to DC (Direct Current) voltage. Direct current is needed for the solid-state switching components.
- High-Speed Switching: The resulting DC voltage turns power transistors on and off very quickly. These transistors act like rapid electronic switches.
- Current Pulsing: By switching on and off rapidly, the transistors conduct current through the primary coil of its small internal transformer at a high frequency.
The reference specifies this switching occurs at a frequency of 15,000 to 30,000 Hz (Hertz), meaning the current is pulsed through the transformer's primary coil between 15,000 and 30,000 times per second. This rapid pulsing of current in the primary coil is a critical step, creating a changing magnetic field which is then used by the transformer to induce a much higher voltage in its secondary coil, ultimately leading to the spark needed for ignition.
Key Stages of Electronic Ignition Power Processing
| Stage | Description | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Power Input | Receives standard line voltage. | 120 VAC |
| Conversion | Transforms AC power into usable DC power for components. | Circuitry converts to DC voltage inside |
| High-Speed Switching | Rapidly turns current flow on and off. | Power transistors turn on and off very quickly |
| Frequency | The speed of the current switching pulses. | 15,000 to 30,000 Hz |
| Transformer Interaction | Current pulses flow through the input side of a transformer. | Conducting current through the primary coil |
This sophisticated electronic control allows for precise timing and efficient energy transfer, preparing the system to generate the spark required to ignite fuel in appliances like furnaces, stoves, or water heaters, replacing older pilot light systems.
