What is meant by 'piloted ignition'?

Piloted ignition refers to the process where an external heat source, such as a flame or spark, initiates the combustion of a fuel and oxygen mixture. This is an important concept in fire protection as it determines how and under what conditions fires can start. In piloted ignition, the presence of an external source is crucial to provide the necessary energy to overcome the energy barrier required for combustion to begin.

In contrast, spontaneous ignition, where combustion occurs without any external ignition source, is a different phenomenon and is not what 'piloted ignition' describes. Understanding piloted ignition is essential for fire prevention and safety measures since it helps assess the potential risks associated with various fuels and the conditions under which they may ignite.