When it comes to the automotive catalytic converters, the core of it is made of a ceramic monolith and, it's shaped in a honeycomb structure. Kanthal FeCrAl made Metallic foil monoliths are used where high heat resistance is needed. The substrate was constructed so that it can create a large surface area.
The washcoat works as a vessel for the catalyst material and plays the main role in distributing the material over a wide surface area. All the catalyst materials get suspended in the washcoat before getting to the core. It needs some oxygen storage promoters. And these oxides play the most crucial role here.
This is the most expensive part of the catalytic converter. The main element is usually from the platinum group. You might know that platinum is one of the most active catalysts. However, it's not good for all elements, as it creates unwanted additional reactions sometimes and also costs a lot. Two other precious metals, rhodium is palladium, are also used. Rhodium works as a reduction catalyst and, palladium does the task of oxidation. Platinum plays the role of both reduction and oxidation.
You will also find iron, cerium, nickel, and manganese but, they have limitations. In the European Union, nickel is not authorized to use as it reacts with carbon monoxide into toxic nickel tetracarbonyl. Copper is allowed to use almost everywhere, excluding Japan.
Catalyst converter has two primary catalysts one is the reduction and oxidation. These are used within the exhaust system to take care of certain gases. Here are the two main catalytic converters:. The two-way converter existed in the vehicles of USA until They have no other catalyst but, an oxidation catalyst. It plays the role of carbon monoxide to carbon dioxide.
The unburned hydrocarbons transform into carbon dioxide and water. The three-way converter has the extra advantage of controlling nitrogen dioxide NO2 and nitric oxide NO. And these are the forerunner of smog and acid rain. It has been used in vehicle emission controlling systems in Canada and the USA since It works almost like a two-way converter with the inclusion of a reduction catalyst.
The diesel engine uses a two-way catalyst system. Those converters were also exclusively designed to be compatible with diesel exhausts. We can get the efficiency rating of the catalytic converter by using some can tool together with the switching between rich and lean. We can also use lab scope to monitor the switching. The engine is then allowed to cool down before being test-driven. Remember how we mentioned the catalytic converter contains precious metals?
Inside the catalyst portion of the converter, you'll find elements such as palladium, rhodium and platinum. And thieves will cut the cat right out of your car to get at those materials.
Catalytic converters can be sold to metal recycling facilities for a pretty penny. The heist is pretty easy to perform, too. Criminals can unbolt or hack a cat out in less than a minute using simple hand tools. Taller vehicles, like trucks and SUVs, make the job even easier because thieves can get underneath without hassle [ 1 ].
You'll know right away if your catalytic converter is missing. Cats are positioned upstream from your car's muffler, so removal unleashes unrestricted engine noise. Your car will make a roaring sound that's loud enough to make you think the engine is ready to explode.
If your car is experiencing such symptoms, take a peek underneath and see if a large section of your exhaust is gone, indicating a missing cat. Does the thought of catalytic converter theft keep you up at night?
Then you may want to consider taking a few preventative measures, such as:. What does a catalytic converter do? All vehicles have a least one catalytic converter, though some may have as many as four. Common catalytic converter problems and symptoms of failure So, you think you may have a bad catalytic converter? Check engine light: The most common sign of a faulty catalytic converter is an illuminated check engine light.
Your car's computer will trigger the warning if it detects via the oxygen sensor that the cat isn't up to snuff. Reduced power: A clogged or restricted catalytic converter can create excessive exhaust back pressure, which chokes the engine, resulting in a reduction in power. Stalling: Likewise, a cat that's clogged or restricted can create enough exhaust back pressure to case engine stalling. Should this pop up, the car will fail the test. The catalytic converter is one of the most important emissions components found in modern vehicles.
Without it, the vehicle may produce excessive emissions harmful to both humans and the environment. If you suspect that your catalytic converter may be having a problem, have the vehicle inspected by a professional technician to determine if the car will need a catalytic converter replacement. The most popular service booked by readers of this article is Exhaust and Emission System Inspection.
Our certified mobile mechanics perform over services, including diagnostics, brakes, oil changes, scheduled mileage maintenances, and will come to you with all necessary parts and tools. Our certified mobile mechanics make house calls in over 2, U. Fast, free online quotes for your car repair. Exhaust and Emission System Inspection Cost. Service Location. Reduced Engine Performance One of the first symptoms commonly associated with a bad or failing catalytic converter is a reduction in engine performance.
Rattling Noise Rattling noises from under the vehicle are another symptom of a bad or failing catalytic converter. Sulfur Smell from Exhaust During engine combustion, sulfur-containing gasoline becomes hydrogen sulfide. Failed Emissions Test Some states in the U. Home Exhaust and Emission System Inspection. The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details. Excellent Auto Repair Ratings.
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