FAA Powerplant Written Practice Test

Why are turbine engine igniters generally not susceptible to carbon fouling?

1. The igniter is made of steel

2. The high intensity spark cleans the igniter

3. The material has a special coating

4. They are larger in size

The correct answer is: The high intensity spark cleans the igniter

Turbine engine igniters are generally not susceptible to carbon fouling primarily due to the high-intensity spark they produce. When the igniter operates, the spark is powerful enough to burn off any carbon deposits that may attempt to accumulate on its surface. This self-cleaning mechanism allows the igniter to maintain its effectiveness and prevents the performance issues that could arise from carbon buildup. The other choices do not address operational characteristics that relate to carbon fouling. For instance, while the material or size of the igniter may influence its durability and compatibility with engine components, the key factor here is the behavior of the spark during operation. Hence, the intense nature of the spark is critical for ensuring that the igniter remains clean and functional over time.