Engine Distributor

Introduction

The distributor, is a part of the ignition system and is a very basic and important mechanical component of an automobile.

The distributors are usually in a direct sight to a person when the bonnet is opened.

The distributor is a small mechanical component which consists of a rotating shaft inside it, and these engines are mechanically timed.

Functions

There are a number of functions to be performed by this mechanical component:-

To direct the correct amount of voltage to the correct cylinder.

This is achieved by the cap and the rotor.

The coil is thus connected to the metal shaft that rotates inside the distributor at the center and at the periphery of the distributors are fixed contacts mounted, each contact for a specific cylinder.

The metal shaft/rotor inside the distributor rotates via a gear set arrangement with the initial power source being the engine only.

The rotor speed is calibrated to a specific speed which is thus the time duration between 2 consecutive firings of 2 different cylinders.

When the rotor rotates, there comes a specific time and positioning of the rotor when it gets align with the permanent mounted contact points.

This time the electricity is then passed to the contact point that initiates the firing of the cylinder.

The rotor is on a continuous rotations and in same manner aligns with every contact, each for a specific cylinder and this is how a particular firing order is set.

Main Components

• A metal shaft/ Rotor
• A distributor cap
• Contact Points
• An optical sensor
• A Condenser
• A mechanical advance
• An ignition coil
• An ignition module

Advantages

Single component is enough for the ignition initiation

A single piece of coil is required, thus adds up an advantage

Less number of components contributing to a lower vehicle cost and also a lower complications.

Disadvantage

Accurate timing for the ignition process.

The easy wear and tear of mechanical gears set, or stacking up of the belt lead to imperfect timing.

Originally published at https://www.carengineered.com on November 30, 2020.