Glow Plugs

1. Ignition System:

• In glow engines, unlike diesel engines, the ignition is not spark-based. Instead, they rely on the heat generated by the glow plug to ignite the air-fuel mixture.
• The heat from the glow plug initiates combustion and keeps the engine running as long as a fuel mixture that includes methanol and nitromethane is supplied.

2. Structure:

• RC glow plugs consist of a small, threaded metal body that is inserted into the engine's cylinder head.
• Inside the plug, there's a platinum or iridium wire element that, when heated, produces a red-hot glow. This is where the name "glow plug" comes from.

3. Glow Starter:

• A glow starter, also known as a glow igniter, is used to heat the glow plug. It is a handheld, battery-powered tool that typically contains a rechargeable NiCd or NiMH battery.
• By connecting the glow starter to the glow plug, the user initiates the heating process, creating the necessary heat for combustion.

4. Role in Starting and Running:

• Before starting the engine, users use the glow starter to heat the glow plug for several seconds.
• Once the engine is running, the heat generated by the combustion process maintains the temperature of the glow plug, ensuring that it continues to function.

5. Fuel Mixture:

• Glow engines typically use a specific type of fuel known as "glow fuel" or "nitro fuel." This fuel mixture contains methanol, nitromethane, oil, and sometimes additional additives.
• The methanol in the fuel is essential for the operation of the glow plug.

6. Tuning and Adjustment:

• RC enthusiasts can fine-tune their engines by adjusting the air-fuel mixture and the heat generated by the glow plug.
• A lean mixture and a hotter glow plug lead to higher engine RPM and power, while a richer mixture and a cooler glow plug reduce power output.

RC glow plugs are integral to the operation of glow engines in the world of radio-controlled vehicles and aircraft. Proper maintenance, ensuring a clean and unbroken glow element, and a fully charged glow starter are essential for reliable engine starting and performance.