Sunday, September 15, 2013
Automobile Catalytic Converter Definition
An automobile catalytic converter is an automobile part designed to minimize the toxins emitted as a result of the combustion of fuel.
HIstory
The first production catalytic converter was made in 1973 by Engelhard Corporation and began appearing in U.S. automobiles in 1975. The development of catalytic converters was part of the automobile industrys efforts to meet stricter air quality standards laid out in the 1970 Clean Air Act Extension.
Types of Pollutants
Automobile catalytic converters are designed to reduce three types of pollutants: carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and nitrogen oxides. These chemicals contribute to smog and are harmful to humans.
Components
The typical catalytic converter consists of a can, which houses the catalytic converters working parts, and the substrate, a honeycomb of ceramic or stainless steel coated with a metal catalyst, such as platinum, rhodium or palladium.
Process
The emissions pass into the catalytic converter, where gases come into contact with the large surface area of the honeycomb. The nitrogen oxide in the exhaust reacts with the metal catalyst, breaking down that compound into its less harmful parts. Additionally, carbon monoxide reacts with the metal catalyst and oxygen, resulting in carbon dioxide.
Other Functions
In modern automobiles, the catalytic converter plays an additional role in helping the engine run as efficiently as possible. An oxygen sensor located in the catalytic converter communicates with the engine how much oxygen the engine has burned, allowing the engine to adjust the air-to-fuel ratio so as little fuel as possible passes through the engine unburned.
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