Normal spark plug use tungsten as their electrode. Tungsten is good for normal use of the bike since it can’t withstand high temperature for a long time. For racing use or heavy duty use, it is advisable to use Iridium electrode spark plug. Also, by using Iridium, the contact area can be reduced to make a larger spark than normal spark plug. If you look closely in the picture, you will see what I mean. So, the Umi Iridium Power Spark Plug here should be a consideration next time you want to have your spark plug changed. What is expected from the usage of this Iridium spark plug is; better fuel economy, better long distance engine performance and better pickup.

Because of its scarcity and high cost, applications of iridium are severely limited. Although iridium metal and many of its complex compounds are good catalysts, no large-scale commercial application for these has been developed. In general, other platinum metals have superior catalytic properties. The high degree of thermal stability of elemental iridium and the stability it imparts to its alloys does give rise to those applications where it has found success. Particularly relevant are its high melting point (2443°C or 4429°F), its oxidation resistance, and the fact that it is the only metal with good mechanical properties that survives atmospheric exposure above 1600°C (2910°F). Iridium is alloyed with platinum to increase tensile strength, hardness, and corrosion resistance. However, the workability of these alloys is decreased. These alloys find use as electrodes for anodic oxidation, for containing and manipulating corrosive chemicals, for electrical contacts that are exposed to corrosive chemicals, and as primary standards for weight and length. Platinum-iridium alloys are used for electrodes in spark plugs that are unusually resistant to fouling by antiknock lead additives. Sourced from Wikipedia.

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