ISO 6518-1:2002

Overview

ISO 6518-1:2002 - Road vehicles - Ignition systems - Part 1: Vocabulary is the ISO international standard that defines terms and standardized vocabulary for ignition systems used on spark‑ignited internal combustion engines in road vehicles. Published as the third edition in June 2002, this part of ISO 6518 provides consistent terminology to support clear engineering, testing, documentation and international trade across the automotive supply chain.

Key topics covered

The standard focuses on definitions and classifications rather than test procedures. Major topics include:

• Types of ignition system - standard terms for systems such as:
  • Inductive ignition system and classical ignition system
  • Capacitor discharge ignition (CDI)
  • Semiconductor ignition system, including semiconductor-assisted and breakerless variants
  • Static (distributorless) ignition systems, with single‑ended and double‑ended coil arrangements
  • Current control systems and dwell control systems
• Types of ignition coil - standardized names for:
  • Single‑ended coil, plug‑top coil
  • Double‑ended coil
  • Multiple high‑tension terminal assemblies
• Parameters and heat rating - terms describing electrical and thermal characteristics used elsewhere in testing and design
• Phenomena leading to uncontrolled engine ignition - vocabulary to describe pre‑ignition, backfire and related events
• Normative reference to ISO 6518‑2 (Part 2: Electrical performance and function test methods)

The foreword notes possible patent rights for some elements and permits limited reproduction of the terms/definitions for educational or implementation use.

Practical applications

ISO 6518‑1 is used to:

• Ensure consistent terminology in product specifications, engineering drawings, and technical manuals
• Align communication between OEMs, suppliers of ignition modules and coils, test laboratories, and certification bodies
• Support training materials, maintenance guides and educational content for technicians and engineers
• Provide a common vocabulary foundation for Part 2 (electrical performance and test methods) and for regulatory or procurement documents

Typical users:

• Automotive electrical engineers and system architects
• Ignition component manufacturers and suppliers
• Test and certification laboratories
• Technical writers, trainers and standards committees
• Regulatory agencies and procurement teams

Related standards

• ISO 6518-2 - Road vehicles - Ignition systems - Part 2: Electrical performance and function test methods (normative reference in Part 1)

Keywords: ISO 6518-1, ignition systems vocabulary, automotive ignition standards, ignition coil types, distributorless ignition, capacitor discharge ignition, semiconductor ignition, road vehicles standards.