A catalytic converter is an emissions-control device located in a vehicle’s exhaust system between the exhaust manifold and the muffler. The converter reduces pollutants created by the car or truck’s gasoline engine. Neither diesel-powered nor electric cars make use of catalytic converters. The device reduces pollution by converting toxic exhaust gasses into less-harmful substances before they exit the tailpipe.
What is a Catalytic Converter?
How it works
Hot exhaust gases from the engine flow into the converter, which contains a honeycomb-like ceramic structure (or sometimes beads) coated with precious metals such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. These metals act as catalysts, speeding up chemical reactions without being consumed in the process.
Pollutants
These are the pollutants typically broken down by the catalyst system:
- Carbon monoxide
- Hydrocarbons
- Nitrogen oxides
These pollutants are converted into less harmful substances such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and water.
Federally mandated
Catalyst systems became mandatory on most U.S. gasoline-powered vehicles starting in 1975. The converters dramatically cut pollution produced by gasoline-powered cars and trucks, but required vehicles to run on unleaded fuel, which was somewhat pricier than leaded gasoline. All gasoline sold in the U.S. is now lead free.
Catalytic converter theft
The devices are maintenance free, and generally operate for the life of the vehicle. Because of the aforementioned precious metals used in the construction of catalytic converters, the devices are often targeted by thieves who sell the them to operations able to scavenge and remarket the metals.
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Catalytic Converter Pictures
(Click on images below)
