Abstract: A spark plug is provided which is suitable for use in a spark ignition system for an internal combustion engine. The spark plug is equipped with a specially configured firing tip on each of its electrodes for the purpose of minimizing the demand voltage of the spark plug, as well as extending the life of the spark plug by maximizing the time over which the demand voltage will remain within an acceptable level. For this purpose, the firing tips are configured such that their firing surfaces include at least three edges and three corners which serve as arc initiation sites of a relatively low resistance arc path between the electrodes.

Abstract: The invention includes a spark plug for a combustion engine including a center electrode having a tapered portion with a plurality of ridges formed thereon. The spark plug may also include a tapered, ground electrode positioned over the center of the center electrode. The tapered center and ground electrodes allow for flames to propagate freely from the spark gap into the combustion chamber and to ignite an air-fuel mixture in the chamber leading to smooth idle and faster starts.