Spark Plugs

Spark plugs ignite the fuel-air mixture to initiate the combustion phase of engine operation. The earliest spark plugs resembled their automobile counterparts with porcelain or mica insulators. With the widespread addition of airborne radios in the 1930s, aircraft engine spark plugs became more specialized with the inclusion of shielding to prevent electromagnetic interference.

Display Status

This object is on display in Boeing Aviation Hangar at the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.

Boeing Aviation Hangar
Object Details
Type PROPULSION-Components (Engine Parts) Physical Description Spark plug and original manufacturer's storage box, Flint L-26. Materials steel, ceramic, brass, paper
Inventory Number A20020540000 Credit Line Found in collection. Donor unknown at this time. Found on NASM premises. Data Source National Air and Space Museum Restrictions & Rights Usage conditions apply
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