Coils

Ignition coils for motorsport vehicles are critical components that convert low-voltage electrical power from the battery into the high-voltage energy needed to ignite the air-fuel mixture within the engine's cylinders. These coils are engineered to deliver a powerful and consistent spark, essential for high-performance engines operating at elevated RPMs. Motorsport ignition coils are typically constructed with advanced materials and precision winding techniques to ensure durability and efficiency under extreme conditions.

Technically, an ignition coil consists of two windings: the primary winding and the secondary winding. The primary winding, made from thick copper wire, receives low-voltage power and generates a magnetic field when current flows through it. When this current is interrupted, the magnetic field collapses, inducing a high voltage in the secondary winding, which is made from a much finer wire and contains thousands of turns. This high voltage is then directed to the spark plugs via the distributor or directly in coil-on-plug systems. High-performance ignition coils are designed to provide rapid charge and discharge cycles, ensuring that each spark plug receives a strong spark at the precise moment it is needed.

In motorsport applications, ignition coils are often paired with electronic ignition control systems that optimise spark timing and intensity. These systems can adjust the dwell time, the period during which the coil is charged, to maximise spark energy and engine performance. Additionally, high-performance coils are built to withstand higher temperatures and vibrations, common in racing environments, ensuring reliable operation. The result is improved combustion efficiency, increased power output, and enhanced throttle response, making high-quality ignition coils a vital component in motorsport vehicle performance.