Lambda sensor touts shorter response time

Bosch Group has unveiled a successor to its LSF4.2 switching-type sensor, the LSF Xfour. According to the company, the robust lambda sensor occupies less installation space, offers more accurate measurement and responds two times faster following engine start compared to the previous product.

The lambda sensor measures oxygen content in the exhaust. This is an indicator of combustion quality. For 1kg of gasoline to completely burn, about 14.7kg of air are needed. The ratio of the mixture in the combustion chamber to the optimum mixture is known as lambda. Conventional gasoline combustion processes ideally operate at a setting of 'lambda equals one.' If lambda is smaller than one, the mixture is rich, with too little oxygen. If the ratio is greater than one, combustion is lean, with an excess of oxygen.

The significant time reduction in which the engine's emissions are uncontrolled combined with greater measurement accuracy will make it easier to comply with future exhaust standards. The LSF Xfour also occupies reduced footprint, giving more installation options, Bosch said. Additionally, the lambda sensor provides high temperature resistance and optional thermal shock protection, improving the sensor's resistance to condensation in the exhaust tract.