Laser spark plugs?
 

Hi EcoMen,

Do any of you know if laser spark plugs are available to purchase from anyone? Unfortunately, I can't link the article I read this in, but apparently going from standard to laser ignition yields like a 20% improvement in bsfc. Absolutely crazy. I run Iridiums already on my G10, but you know, it'd be nice if I didn't have to worry about any spark plug service interval period.

Regards,
Jordan

I had never heard of laser spark plugs before. A quick search only reveals Laser™ trademark brand name iridium spark plugs from NGK. What am I missing?

Search "laser ignition advantages" and you'll see what I'm talking about. Damn scientists... touting so many great advantages on a product not sold in stores!

Here. Let me do it for you.

https://duckduckgo.com/?q=laser+ignition+advantages

I'm not seeing any products, just research. It also looks like laser ignition is not drop-in, and may require engine or engine head redesign.

Well yes... that's why I was asking you guys here. If it's available outside labs at all, even if it takes a heck ton of fabrication work, someone on this forum will have done it if it improves MPG that much. Also, yes thank you Freebeard - I can't post links because I'm new, apparently.

I guess laser spark plugs not becoming a thing is a result of the EV madness. Even if the ICE gets a brighter future, I wouldn't really hold my breath for laser ignition.

I've basically seen a cessation of development of ICE tech. Some is even being abandoned - for instance Mazda's HCCI.

Mainstream automakers are slowing down, but it still leaves plenty of space for Chinese or Indian companies, and to outsiders such as Achates Power with its Diesels, or LiquidPiston with gassers and Diesels. Now that LiquidPiston is even developing a rotary 2-stroke Diesel for military UAVs, and funded by DARPA, it's likely to succeed in one way or another.

IMO

I think the manufactures need to do a totally new design on the ICE. Something that does not resemble a 4-cycle engine at all. "Too much thermal and mechanical loss".

F1 has pretty much tap out on how much energy you can get from a 4-cycle pistons/rod with tulip valve design.

Even the rotor engine has way too much surface area. Now some of the newer ones have made some improvement.

Also, I think combustion needs a redesign also. Nano fuel technology might be the answer.

Today's vehicle emission systems are very crude. Closed loop is a joke in itself. With today's technology we should have been able to run a cat less system and obtain even cleaner emissions.

OK I'm done with my rant :)