Automotive Exhaust Systems
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The exhaust system serves three functions; It carries burned exhaust gases away from the passenger
compartment of the car, it quiets the engine, and it has a catalytic converter that helps control
exhaust emissions. |
Various Components
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The exhaust pipe is metal pipe, either steel, stainless steel, or
zinc-plated heavy-gauge steel that runs under the vehicle between the exhaust manifold and the
catalytic converter.
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Catalytic Converters
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- A catalytic converter is part of the exhaust system and a very important part
of the emission control system. Because it is part of both systems, it has a role in
both.
- As an emission control device, it is responsible for converting undesirable
exhaust gases into harmless gases.
- As part of the exhaust system, it helps reduce the noise level of the
exhaust.
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A catalytic converter contains a ceramic element coated with a
catalyst.
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A catalyst is a substance that causes a chemical reaction in other elements
without actually becoming part of the chemical change and without being used up or consumed in
the process.
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Mufflers
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- The muffler is a cylindrical or oval-shaped component, generally about 2 feet
(.6 meters) long, mounted in the exhaust system about midway or toward the rear of the
car.
- Inside the muffler is a series of baffles, chambers, tubes and holes to
breakup, cancel out, or silence the pressure pulsations that occur each time an exhaust valve
opens.
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Hangers
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- Hangers are used to support the various parts of the exhaust
system.
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Clamps
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- Clamps used to properly join the various part of the exhaust
system.
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