Design of a ceramic spark plug insulator

Noticing inefficiencies in the previous insulators, Barlett used her previous knowledge in mineralogy and petrology, as well as the knowledge gained through experience working for AC Spark Plug (General Motors), to introduce a ceramic spark plug insulator made of material which would last longer as a result of its higher heat resistance and would require less maintenance overall. By encasing the spark plugs, she had made possible for them to become quite durable. Prior to the design changes, spark plugs would get covered in byproducts spewed by the engine and had to be manually cleaned every 70 to 150 kilometers for the vehicle to function effectively. Alumina insulator material allows plugs to handle high heat and voltage within the spark plug, enabling vehicles to operate in a cleaner and, in turn, more efficient manner.

Spark plug insulator; Ceramic body for spark plug insulators; Method of processing mica; Ceramic composition & process for making same; corrosion-resistant coating for magnesium die castings

Category:
Automotive - Ceramics Engineering

Completion Status:
yes

Patent Number:
2152655;2177943;2214931;2232860;2344670;2760875;3378410

Co-Inventor:
Taine G. McDougal; Allira H. Fessler; Karl Schwartzwalder