How Catalytic Converters Helped Transform Automotive Pollution

The automobile was developed in a period of human history where we paid very little attention to the environmental impact of the things we did. As a result, the hazardous waste products expelled into the air by internal combustion engines were ignored. This worked for a while because there were so few internal combustion engines chugging away. As the number of automobiles exponentially increased, the danger from toxic fumes grew alongside a growing awareness of environmental concerns. The solution to the problem of these toxic gases was the catalytic converter.

The first catalytic converters came into popular use in the United States during the mid 1970s. These were two way converters used to eliminate the two pollutants that came directly from the engine – carbon monoxide and hydrocarbons.

Carbon Monoxide is deadly because our bodies can not differentiate it from Oxygen. We can breathe it and our bodies do not panic even though we are being deprived of air. A person succumbing to Carbon Monoxide poisoning simply feels sluggish and the sudden urge to sleep.

Hydrocarbons that are released by an internal combustion engine are simply remnants of the fuel that did not get completely burned. These remnants are the visible particles that we all think of when we imagine a vehicle with poor emissions. While certainly deadly to people, they are less of a danger than Carbon Monoxide in that we can detect and try to avoid breathing them. The larger danger of Hydrocarbons is to the environment. Once in the atmosphere, these pollutants are responsible for phenomena like acid rain and smog.

Catalytic converters use a chemical process to convert these harmful chemicals to the more benign Carbon Dioxide and water vapor.

Scientists eventually realized that two way catalytic converters were inadequate because engines produce a third pollutant – Nitrogen Oxides. These Oxides are created when the heat from the combustion process forces Nitrogen and Oxygen to combine in a process similar to the operation of a catalytic converter.

Modern catalytic converters are three way, in that they function to eliminate all three classes of pollutant. The catalyst, or material used to make this conversion, is usually palladium or platinum. The current three way catalytic converter has become standard for decades now. With growing concern over the amount of Carbon Dioxide found in the atmosphere, it is very likely that scientists and engineers will try to further increase the effectiveness of catalytic converters to convert Carbon Dioxide to a different compound.

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Difference Between A Direct Fit And A Universal Fit For Your Vehicle

Understanding what a catalytic converter is, and what it does within your exhaust system, is important for you to distinguish the best options when having to choose the difference between a direct fit and a universal fit for your vehicle. The propose of a catalytic converter is crucial for converting harmfully toxic gases, which are produced during the combustion of gasoline and diesel fuel, into carbon dioxide and water vapors, and to reduce nitrogen oxides. In this way, harmful gases such as hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide are meant to be rendered harmless, if the exhaust system if functioning properly.

Can an inefficient exhaust system hinder the ability of modern catalytic converter to reduce nitrogen oxides, and to convert harmful exhaust gases into water vapor and carbon dioxide? The answer is yes. In fact, the difference between a direct fit and a universal fit for your vehicle can improve the effectiveness of the catalytic converter. And, at the same time increase your engine’s overall performance. Here’s how.

To ensure that you’re current catalytic converter is operating at peak performance, or you are considering installing a new one and want to get the most effective use out of it, then you should know the difference between a direct fit and a universal fit for your vehicle. Below you will find a description and an explanation distinguishing the differences between a direct fit and a universal fit. But first, you need to understand the basics of how an exhaust system works.

Universal fit and direct fit catalytic converters are much like comparing a custom exhaust system to a generic exhaust system. Professional exhaust fabricators Melbourne have the knowledge and the ability to custom design an exhaust system for almost any type of vehicle. The purpose is to decrease engine noise, increase vehicle performance or to meet ever growing governmental standards. The purpose of generic exhaust system components is to reduce noise; they are not designed to increase engine performance. Understanding this will help you to know the difference between a direct fit and a universal fit for your vehicle.

Universal Fit Catalytic Converter – As the name implies, a universal fit means that a catalytic converter is generically designed to fit various engine models of cars, truck, vans and station wagons. The pros and cons of a universal fit may not be obvious to the untrained mechanic or exhaust fabricator. Most vehicle owners don’t even know what a catalytic converter does, let alone the benefits and negative effects they can have on engine performance. So, what are the pros and cons? The pros are easily understood when considering price and availability.

Universal catalytic converters are usually less costly than direct fit ones, however, the cons are observed in reduced engine performance. Why is that? Custom exhaust system components are specially fabricated using specific length and pipe widths, to take advantage of the vacuum that hot gases produce when they leave the exhaust manifold. Universal fit catalytic converters can hinder the effectiveness of a custom exhaust system, thus affecting their efficiency as well.

Direct Fit Catalytic Converters – These are specially design to fit your model of car. Direct fit catalytic converters are the ideal choice if you want to get the most out of your engines performance. Locating a Melbourne exhaust centre, one that specializes in fabricating custom exhaust components is important, if you want to install a direct fit catalytic converter into your vehicle to improve engine performance.

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Why Is Water Coming Out Of My Car’s Tailpipe?

One of the most common vehicular problems that most car owners encounter is the strange extrusion of water from their exhaust pipe. You may have asked at one time or the other ‘why is water coming out of my car’s tailpipe?’ and considered the worst with respect to your vehicle. Water coming out of an exhaust pipe isn’t really all that bad, although there are incidences when you should worry if something leaks out of a car’s tailpipe, more often than not it’s something altogether harmless and normal for any vehicle.

It can be quite difficult to gauge the severity of tailpipe leaks yourself, so here’s a quick and easy way to help you gauge the severity of tailpipe leakage.

A Quick And Easy Guide To Gauge When To Fix Your Tailpipe If And When It Leaks

Under normal circumstances, a trifling amount of water in the form of condensation can form on the inside of your car’s exhaust pipe. This is typically the result of driving your car and specific weather conditions which results in water residue water buildup your exhaust pipe. Typically, the water that drips out the end of a tail pipe is nothing more than water condensation leaking out.

This in itself is perfectly normal, although it may at first be disconcerting to an individual at first. Another reason why tailpipes leak is because of the external temperature, which, if cold, will solidify whatever amount of moisture that is in the inside of the tailpipe, and the ensuring heat results in a leak.

If, however, the leak persists well after your car has been running then that could mean a serious problem that requires immediate attention. Also, it should be noted that a leaking tailpipe that also belches out grey or black smoke which smells like burning oil, then you may have a piston ring problem. Getting your car tuned and checked regularly can prevent any of the latter from occurring, although water drops alone shouldn’t cause alarm.

Those are the reasons to answer your question “why is water coming out of my car’s tailpipe?” If you are experience constant liquid leaking from your tailpipe, or notice blackish smoke coming out from the tailpipe or other areas of the exhaust pipe, then you should have a professional exhaust center Melbourne have a look. And For more information on how to deal with leaking car exhaust pipes, please visit: https://www.trufitexhaust.com.au/

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What Are Magnaflow Mufflers?

The Magnaflow Mufflers name represents one of those elite brands you’ll come across from time to time. The American company produces high-quality exhaust components, is well-known in the aftermarket exhaust scene, and has earned the respect of performance enthusiasts.

Earning a Reputation by Building Parts to Exhaustive Standards

Magnaflow mufflers are manufactured from stainless steel and polished until they shine with a satin-silver glow. It’s likely that you’ll see the company logo proudly emblazoned on each alloyed housing due to the passion the exhaust manufacturer infuses into each of their products. Competently assured by these hallmarks, enthusiasts know that a Magnaflow product is more than a tough and good looking exhaust. Surface design virtuosity extends through the corrosion-resistant housing and down into the engine-optimizing core of the unit.

Internal Performance Attributes

Reputation is built on more than good looks and a durable housing. Magnaflow mufflers optimize engine output. The product reduces back pressure and maximizes horsepower throughput, using a straight-through profile to eliminate gas mix restriction issues and push the mix through the premium 400 series stainless steel chamber. The result of this optimized high flow is a dramatic upsurge in system performance and an accompanying aggressive rumble. A cutaway of the product would illustrate the build, showing the economical location of the stainless steel wool mesh wrap, the state-of-the-art acoustical filling, and the precisely engineered perforated alloy core. These parts work in concert to reinforce the race-inspired tones, all while maintaining performance.

Destined to be the Exhaust System of Choice

Already established as a must-have race exhaust system, Magnaflow mufflers are a natural fit for the gearhead market. The raw tones generated by the exhaust aren’t overbearing but they are loud enough to impress demanding aftermarket purists. Horsepower and torque receive favourable boosts, increasing power and optimizing engine output far beyond what would be possible from a factory-installed model. As if these features weren’t enough, feel the reputation of the company name echoing through you as you follow its legacy back to the days of American muscle cars. It’s a reputation that remains untarnished by the decades, set to race into the twenty-first century due to craftsman-like pride and a hard-earned understanding of engine dynamics.

Quality and proficiency are the two signature attributes of this expert exhaust system manufacturer. The quality aspect is met and surpassed through the incorporation of methodically fabricated stainless steel housings and equally robust steel innards. The proficiency half of the partnership is just as clearly defined, ably effected by tailoring straight-through exhaust pathways against roar-inducing steel mesh assemblages. Not sure if this professional-grade gear is right for you? Don’t worry, the mufflers are built with easy installation in mind, and can be installed without modifying the original exhaust hanger.

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What is a Diesel Catalytic Converter?- Everything You Need To Know

A must-have accessory for your precious vehicles, a catalytic converter is primarily defined as an exhaust emission control device. That means, it is responsible for the reduction of toxic gases and fumes emitting from your vehicle’s internal combustion engine. With the rampant increase in pollution levels, Govt. all across the world have taken a stricter stand towards environment pollution; most of it occurring due to the frequent use of automobiles. In fact, vehicle emission was posing such a threat to our environment that the Australian Govt. in 1986 ordered vehicle owners to thoroughly clean their car emission systems for residual toxicity. This was enforced alongside a new law that made catalytic converters a mandate for every vehicle plying on the road.

Now think about your vehicle and its wellbeing. Toxic gases and fumes trapped inside your vehicle is not just a threat to the environment, but to your car too. Imagine all the toxic gases piling up inside your engine. Most of them are paving their way to more irreparable damage within.

To simplify it down, catalytic converters are responsible for converting toxic gas into less-toxic, environmentally-sustainable gas (before the vehicle emits it out of its system). And this is done through chemical reactions that strips the gases of its toxicity, thereby cleaning the gases of its harmful properties.

Catalytic Converter Exhaust- How Do They Work?

Your vehicle’s engine usually emits harmful substances in the form of nitric oxide, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide etc. The sole purpose of your catalytic converter is to filter out these very harmful toxicities in the gas, leaving only carbon dioxide and water vapour as vehicle emissions. Now, the conversion is usually done through chemical reactions thanks to the catalyst present in the converter.

Your catalytic converter resembles a honeycomb structure, coated in catalysts. The honeycomb structure ensures the gas touches a broader area of catalysts. That way, the gas emitted by your engine can convert quicker and better before releasing itself from the exhaust. Usually, expensive metals such as platinum or rhodium are used as catalysts which increase the catalyst converter cost or value. Unfortunately, these catalysts are quite indispensable in nature. And because of your catalytic converters price, these accessories often fall prey to petty thefts.

Where Will I Find the Catalytic Converter in My Car?

Initially, these converters were placed near the engine, since the reactive elements in the catalyst needed high temperature to work well. However, the placement was later changed due to certain reactions. The converter was moved further away from the engine area and today you can find your catalytic converter exhaust near your vehicle’s exhaust system.

Can Catalytic Converters be Cleaned?

Your Catalytic Converters faces a lot of toxic gases which is why clogs can be a normal affair. However, ignoring a clogged catalytic converter may make your vehicle fail the emission test. This is because clogged or unclean converters reduce the efficiency of the converter. Now, your catalytic converters have a lot of noble metals in them which is why cleaning a converter can’t be a DIY project for you. Most vehicle owners trust their neighbourhood catalytic converter cleaners to get the job done. These experts do a terrific job in cleaning. What’s more? They can also ensure your converter will be in pristine condition without damage once they are done.

In fact, these converters are frequently exposed to harmful gases. Inefficiency and malfunctions are not uncommon in cases like this. Instead of splurging on a new unit, you can always opt for catalytic converter repair services from exhaust experts in Australia. In fact, if you’re working with a reputed catalytic converter cleaner in Melbourne, you can even get other services like repair or catalytic converter replacement services and not just cleaning.

Do Catalytic Converter Cleaners Really Work?

Harmful gases emitted by your vehicle has to pass through the converter. Hence, if your exhausts complain about a lot of carbon build-up, you better believe them. Carbon build-up or clogging is quite common in catalytic converters; especially if they are old. That’s why catalytic converter cleaners often focus on breaking down the stubborn build-up. So, if you’re asking whether catalytic converter cleaners work, we’d say YES! They are effective every time in clearing out the carbon build-up.

But do note, if you’re ignoring catalytic converter maintenance for way too long, chances are that your catalytic converter replacement costs will be quite high!

Is Your Catalytic Converter ‘Bad’?

In a nutshell, catalytic converters are critical for your vehicle and the environment but inadequate care or maintenance can take a toll on your converters. With years of usage, the catalytic converter’s efficiency starts declining. Before you know it, there are strange odours in your car. Your check engine light is blinking away. Your vehicle is failing all the emission tests! Now at a time like this, mere cleaning will not be enough to get your car back on the road! You may have to opt for a catalytic converter replacement.

Let us list down some of the most common symptoms that indicate a bad catalytic converter. These would include-

A rotten/ sulfur smell inside the car

Difficulty in starting your engine

The check engine light will be blinking constantly

Exhaust smoke will be darker in colour

Engine performance will degrade over time

Your vehicle will produce excessive heat

Acceleration performance will be reduced

These are just some of the basic symptoms that you may experience. The underlying damage will be much detrimental. So, what can you do at a time like this? Bring your vehicle to one of the seasoned exhaust experts in Melbourne and get a comprehensive inspection and maintenance check done on your converters.

 

The Trufit Way

Catalytic Converter price in Australia has always been on the higher-end. That’s why our Trufit experts have come up with a comprehensive check-up routine. We’ll first inspect your car for fault. And then works up a budgeted repair or replacement solution that fits both your budget and your car. Let our auto-repairing maestros take care of the cleaning and repairing. Meanwhile, Trufit has a personal inventory of some of the premium branded catalytic converters for replacement so that you get nothing but the best for your car!

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