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What Are Spark Plugs Made Of?

Although spark plugs almost all have a copper core to them, most people refer to the common sparkplug as a "copper" plug.

Standard spark plugs typically have a nickel-alloy exterior material that is fused to copper-core electrodes. Copper spark plugs are cooler and produce more power for performance driving situations.

What are the various materials used to make spark plugs?

Most spark plugs have a copper-core central electrode. Copper conducts electricity better than any other material in spark plugs and heats up faster.

Copper is soft and has a low melting temperature so it should always be covered with a nickel alloy. To optimize performance, depending on the type of plug, the electrodes can be fitted with a platinum or an iridium tip.

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What's the purpose of metal in spark plugs?

Manufacturers use precious metals as the spark plug's side and center electrodes. This metal channelizes the spark plug's high voltage through the spark plug, so that it sparks when it crosses the small gap between its central electrode and the side. This is what ignites the combustion process.

High voltage sparks can cause wear, so the use of metals such as nickel alloy, platinum, and iridium helps reduce this. These metals can also be used to reduce the misfire rate and extend the interval between sparkplug changes.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of the copper sparkplug?

Copper spark plugs are the most popular and cost-effective. Although most spark plugs have a copper core, the majority of spark plugs are called "copper". The standard spark plug usually has a nickel-alloy exterior material that is fused to the copper core electrodes.

Copper spark plugs are cooler and produce more power for performance driving situations. These spark plugs are commonly used as the original equipment for turbocharged engines or engines with higher compression ratios. In older vehicles (pre-1980s), copper spark plugs are often used.

The nickel-alloy outside material in the copper sparkplug isn't as tough as other metals, so it wears down faster due to the high pressure and heat generated in the engine's cylinder. This wear causes spark plugs to become less efficient over time. Most copper spark plugs have a short life span and should be replaced every 20,000 miles.

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What's the scoop on platinum sparkplugs?

Platinum is a harder metal than nickel alloy, and it has a higher melting point. Platinum is more durable than conventional spark plugs, lasting up to 100,000 miles. Platinum spark plugs have a major advantage in longevity.

Platinum spark plugs have another advantage: they burn deposits better and prevent fouling. The spark plugs will last longer if platinum is able to withstand high heat.

There are two types of platinum spark plugs: single or double platinum. A single platinum spark plug looks similar to a copper one, but has a platinum disk welded to its center electrode. A double platinum spark plug has both a center and side electrodes with a platinum disc.

How about iridium sparkplugs?

Iridium has a melting point of 700 degrees higher than platinum, making it six times more difficult and eight times stronger than the platinum. Iridium sparkplugs are extremely thin and have excellent wear characteristics. Iridium spark plugs are stronger than platinum spark plugs and can last 25% longer.

Spark plugs made of Iridium have a fine wire centre electrode, which is designed to conduct electricity better and increase firing efficiency.

This precious metal has a price. Iridium sparkplugs are the most expensive and cost between $8 and $15 per unit.

How can I choose the right spark plug material?

Check your owner's guide to find the recommended spark plugs that are best for your vehicle. You should not downgrade to copper spark plugs or platinum spark plugs if your owner's manual says iridium. This could lead to poor engine performance. Your mechanic can help you choose the right spark plug for your vehicle.

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