The benefits are immediate and measurable:-
IMPROVED ENGINE EFFICIENCY
REDUCED EMISSIONS
INCREASED ECONOMY
Now’s the time to turn to the world’s No.1 in engine sensors. NTK.
To ensure the reduction of harmful emissions produced by the internal combustion engine, the lambda or oxygen sensor has become an important piece of technology. As the leading supplier of oxygen sensors both for OEMs and the Aftermarket, NGK is continually improving its oxygen sensors to make engines cleaner and more efficient.
Oxygen Sensor Technologies
With its NTK oxygen sensors launched in the 1980s, NGK was among the pioneers in this field. Since then, the reduction of harmful emissions has made significant advances, not least thanks to the development of innovative technologies and extensive research.
Today, highly efficient ceramic heaters in lambda sensors ensure, for example, that the sensors start measuring sooner and respond faster. To achieve more accurate measurements in order to meet the ever more stringent Euro standards, huge efforts are being made in the continuous improvement of the ceramic components. In addition, a variety of sensor types have been developed catering to specific applications. They include broadband sensors and lambda sensors whose electric resistance changes depending on the air-fuel ratio.
Oxygen Sensor Requirements
As proper conversion of undesirable gases can only occur at a set air-fuel ratio, an oxygen sensor has the task of precisely measuring the ratio present in exhaust gases and to inform the vehicle’s ECU (Electronic Control Unit) in order to adjust the air-fuel ratio. This entire process not only helps effectively reduce harmful emissions, but also optimizes fuel consumption and ensures a long service life of the catalytic converter. Modern cars are normally equipped with at least two lambda sensors, namely a front or regulating sensor installed in front of the catalytic converter and a rear or diagnostic sensor mounted after the catalytic converter.
Types of Oxygen Sensors
Zirconium dioxide lambda sensor
This oxygen sensor is comprised of a zirconium-dioxide-based solid electrolyte. The output signal is generated by oxygen ions, which pass through the element. The zirconium dioxide lambda sensor is distinguished by the following characteristics:
● Fast operational readiness
● Temperature resistance
● High level of reliability
These sensors are used as a regulating and as a diagnostic sensor, depending on the vehicle.
Titanium dioxide lambda sensor
Titanium dioxide lambda sensors were used as a regulating and as a diagnostic sensor, depending on the vehicle. This technology is no longer used in original equipment. However, they are still offered by NGK SPARK PLUG to the Aftermarket.
● Sturdy and compact design
● Short response time
● No reference air required
● Operating temperature reached quickly
Broad-/wideband / linear lambda sensor
Broadband lambda sensors are capable of issuing a signal proportional to the residual oxygen content of the exhaust air. These sensors are used as regulating and diagnostic sensors for petrol and diesel engines.
● Sturdy and compact design
● Short response time
● No reference air required
● Operating temperature reached quickly