What material is primarily used in most modern hot surface igniters?

The primary material used in most modern hot surface igniters is silicon nitride. This material is chosen due to its excellent thermal properties and high resistance to thermal shock, which allows it to withstand the extreme temperatures generated during ignition processes. Specifically, silicon nitride can operate at higher temperatures without degrading, making it suitable for applications in commercial cooking equipment where reliability and durability are critical.

Moreover, silicon nitride has a strong structural integrity and a low expansion coefficient, minimizing the risk of cracking or failure. This ensures a better performance and a longer lifespan of the igniter in conditions where it is repeatedly subjected to heating and cooling cycles.

While aluminum oxide, silicon carbide, and glass fiber are also materials encountered in various industrial applications, they do not offer the same combination of heat resistance and mechanical stability as silicon nitride, which is why the latter is preferred in modern hot surface igniter designs.