BROADVIEW, Ill. — It was 1902 when Robert Bosch invented the first commercially viable high-voltage spark plug and magneto that revolutionized the automotive industry. Now in 2011, after a long history of major spark plug innovations that includes heat ranges in spark plugs, copper core spark plugs and long-lasting platinum spark plugs, Bosch says it has another new innovation on its hands.
The new Bosch Iridium spark plug was developed using the same leading-edge innovations in design, manufacturing processes and materials found in Bosch spark plugs used by domestic, Asian and European original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) around the world, the company says.
New Bosch Iridium provides exceptional ignitability, performance and durability, offering four times longer service life compared to standard copper plugs, according to the company.
“The move to smaller engines and from carburetors to port injection to gasoline direct injection (GDI) required a significant change in spark plug technology,” said Mark Wilkinson, group product manager for Spark Plugs for Bosch. “Developed in close collaboration with automakers, the fine-wire center electrode with our proprietary iridium alloy meets the demanding conditions in modern engines. By maintaining the OE spark position/gap and using ‘Best-in-Class’ materials — iridium alloy, which is designed to give maximum life — and exclusive manufacturing processes, new Bosch Iridium surpasses all other spark plugs by delivering both performance and long life, all at a competitive price.”
“Bosch Iridium’s outstanding performance and durability are due to its basic design: the extensive use of precious metal in both the center and tapered ground electrodes, and the unique Bosch 360-degree Continuous Wave Laser Welding process. Our best-in-class laser welding processes ensure durable precision welds which will prevent micro fractures caused by the intense heating and cooling experienced by a spark plug over its lifetime,” Wilkinson added.
New Bosch Iridium is designed for domestic, Asian and European applications and will cover 71 percent of vehicles in operation. The company launched with 15 part numbers in June. The program will be expanded in the coming months to include additional part numbers and vehicle coverage.
