spark arrester
Noun: 1. A safety device that prevents sparks or embers from escaping: A spark arrester is a device, often a screen or mesh, designed to trap and extinguish hot particles (sparks or embers) that are expelled from a combustion source, such as a chimney, fireplace, or engine exhaust, to prevent fires. 2. An electrical component that suppresses sparking: In electrical engineering, a spark arrester is a device used to minimize or prevent sparking at points where an electrical circuit is opened or closed, protecting contacts and reducing radio interference.
Spark arresters are critical safety components used in various contexts to mitigate fire hazards or electrical damage. - They are commonly installed on the exhaust systems of internal combustion engines (e.g., in vehicles, chainsaws, lawnmowers), chimneys, and fireplaces. - In electrical systems, they are used across switch contacts, relay points, or in ignition systems.
- For fire prevention:
- All off-road vehicles operating in the national forest are required by law to have a properly functioning spark arrester on their exhaust.
- The chimney sweep recommended installing a spark arrester on top of the flue to prevent roof fires.
- For electrical applications:
- The old relay was causing interference, so the technician replaced it with one that had an integrated spark arrester.
- Spark arresters are often used in the ignition systems of gasoline engines to suppress radio frequency noise.
- "Spark arrester screen/mesh": Specifies the type of arrester that uses a physical barrier of fine wire mesh to block embers.
- The spark arrester screen must be cleaned regularly to prevent clogging with soot.
- "Catalytic spark arrester": A more advanced type that uses a chemical catalyst to help burn off excess fuel particles, further reducing emissions and spark risk.
- Modern snowmobiles are often equipped with catalytic spark arresters to meet environmental and safety standards.
- Spark suppressor (n): A synonym, especially in electrical contexts, for a device that dampens sparking.
- A spark suppressor was added across the motor terminals to extend the switch's lifespan.
- Ember guard (n): A related term for a device, often a screen, placed over a fireplace opening to contain sparks.
- Always use the ember guard in front of the fireplace when it is lit.
- Fire trap (n): Informal term for a spark arrester on a chimney or exhaust.
- Spark trap (n): A descriptive synonym.
- Arc suppressor (n): A related term in electrical engineering for devices that prevent electrical arcing.
- To be equipped with a spark arrester: To have a spark arrester installed as a standard or added safety feature.
- This model of generator comes equipped with a spark arrester for safe operation in dry conditions.
- To clog/foul a spark arrester: For the arrester to become blocked by residue (like carbon or soot), reducing its effectiveness.
- Running rich fuel mixture can quickly foul the spark arrester.
- a wire net to stop sparks from an open fireplace or smokestack
- electrical device to reduce sparking when electrical contacts are opened or closed