Abstract: A method of producing a spark plug comprises (a) a step of combining a metallic shell and an insulator; (b) a step of inserting a portion of the assembly on its forward end side into a pressure container; (c) a step of bringing an insulating member into contact with the outer circumferential surface of a base side portion of the insulator over the entire circumference thereof, and pressing the assembly so as to close the opening by the assembly; and (d) a step of pressurizing the interior of the pressure container and applying a predetermined voltage between the terminal electrode and the metallic shell, wherein the step (b) includes a step of inserting the portion of the assembly on the forward end side into the pressure container such that a gap formed between the outer surface of the insulator and the inner surface of the metallic shell on the forward end side of the assembly is disposed in the pressure container.

Abstract: A method and system for evaluating the durability of spark plugs. A test system simulates the pressure, temperature, and exhaust flow of an internal combustion engine, and has a test chamber in which these simulated conditions exist. A number of spark plugs are installed in the test chamber and are cycled through a desired ignition cycle. The test chamber temperature and pressure may be precisely controlled, as well as the duty cycle of spark events.

Abstract: A method for testing an igniter coupled within a gas turbine engine, wherein the gas turbine engine includes a combustor, a pressure transducer coupled to the combustor, and a spark detector. The method includes operating the gas turbine engine, monitoring the operating pressure within the gas turbine engine, operating the igniter when the monitored pressure is within a first predefined pressure range, and generating a first indication if the igniter failed to generate a spark within the first predefined pressure range.

Abstract: A method of inspecting insulators such as spark plug insulators for defects, whereby a plurality of insulators are inspected concurrently by being disposed with a plurality of first electrodes engaged in respective apertures in the insulators, and with apertures formed in a second electrode being disposed to peripherally enclose respective insulators. With the insulators and electrodes set in a closed chamber under high air pressure, and high voltage applied between the first and second electrodes, any defect is detected based on a level of leakage current which then flows.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for determining pressure and vacuum comprising an adapter that links to a digital tester. The adapter is comprised of at least one pressure sensor, a power source, converter and an interface cable. The pressure sensor attaches to the system to be measured. The detected pressure is transmitted to the adapter and then to the digital tester for displaying to the user. The apparatus can detect pressure beyond 500 pounds per square inch.

Abstract: A portable self-contained ignition system test diagnostic instrument for testing single cylinder and multi-cylinder spark ignited engines is disclosed comprising a housing having an interior spark chamber, a transparent portion permitting visual observation of the spark chamber, an outer portion performing an exterior air pump chamber, and an air passageway connecting the outer portion and the spark chamber, a reciprocal air pump movably mounted about the outer portion of the housing to form an air pump chamber therebetween for pumping compressed air through the air passageway to pressurize the spark chamber upon reciprocation of the pump, a check valve connected to the air passageway, a spark plug having a pair of electrodes forming a spark gap of predetermined size and mounted to the housing so that the spark gap is positioned within the spark chamber and visible through the transparent housing, a ground wire for detachably grounding the spark plug to an engine ground point, and a pressure gauge for indicat