Piezo ignition
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Piezo ignition is a type of ignition that is used in portable camping stoves, gas grills and some lighters. It consists of a small, spring-loaded hammer which, when a button is pressed, hits a crystal of PZT or quartz crystal. Quartz is piezoelectric, which means that it creates a voltage when deformed. This sudden forceful deformation produces a high voltage and subsequent electrical discharge, which ignites the gas.
No electric connection is required, though wires are sometimes used to move the sparking location away from the crystal itself. Piezo ignition systems can be operated by either a lever, separate push button or built into the control knob. Only one spark is generated per turn of the knob or press of the button.
[edit] External links
- What is piezo ignition?
- Piezoelectric Igniter — Manufacturer's product description
- Piezo Disassembly — Exposing the piezo element in a barbecue lighter
- Piezo Igniter Life — A destructive test of igniter lifetime
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