Which type of ignition system is primarily used on most turbine aircraft engines?

In turbine aircraft engines, the most commonly used ignition system is the capacitor discharge ignition (CDI) system. This system operates by storing electrical energy in a capacitor and then discharging it quickly to produce a high-voltage spark. The advantage of this type of ignition system is its ability to deliver a strong and reliable spark that is necessary for igniting the fuel-air mixture in the combustion chamber of a turbine engine.

Turbine engines require consistent ignition performance and reliability, particularly during the critical start and acceleration phases of the engine operation. The CDI system provides this by ensuring that the energy is released in a very short and intense burst, which is particularly effective in igniting the fuel in a high-pressure environment typically found in turbine engines.

Additionally, capacitor discharge systems are less affected by changes in altitude and temperature conditions, thereby offering enhanced reliability compared to other ignition systems which might struggle under varying engine conditions. This reliability is critical for turbine engines which are often used in commercial aviation and require extremely dependable performance.

This prevalence of the CDI system in turbine engines contrasts with other types of ignition systems, such as magneto ignition, battery ignition, and inductive ignition systems, which are more common in piston engines where the ignition requirements differ significantly.