Comparison of metal properties
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Iridium is a precious metal that is 6 times harder and 8 times stronger than platinum, it has a 1,200 degrees (F) higher melting point than platinum and conducts electricity better. This makes it possible to create the finest wire center electrode ever. Prior till now, Champion has favored platinum for their long life or performance automotive spark plugs due to its high melting point, also the technology did not exist to machine and bond iridium on a spark plug electrode (at least in a cost effective manner). Champion Spark Plugs has made iridium industrial and aviation plugs since the 1960's, but advances in late model engine design have necessitated the need for iridium in automotive applications. The strength, hardness and high melting point of iridium allow Champion to manufacture their iridium ultra-fine wire center electrode to 0.7mm. One of the finest firing points in the industry! (Thus far there has been no problems reported regarding use of iridium plugs with nitrous oxide.) |
