Catalytic converter: Function and maintenance
What is it?
The catalytic converter was created in the 1970s. It was made mandatory for vehicles in Europe from 1993 to comply with EURO 1.
Situated in continuity with the exhaust line, the catalytic converter transforms exhaust gases into harmless ones. It consists of a stainless-steel chamber, in which there is a honeycomb mainly made of ceramics. This structure is called the catalytic surface and being very large, it allows 90% of exhaust gases to be transformed.
How does the catalytic converter work?
The catalytic converter contains at least three precious metals. These are catalysing elements that, once the temperature reaches 400°C, trigger chemical reactions allowing the transformation.
There are two distinct types of catalytic converters:
- Catalytic converter for petrol engines
- Catalytic converter for diesel engines
What are the common problems with catalytic converters?
With short daily trips, the catalytic converter does not reach its operating temperature (400°). It thus clogs up more quickly:
- Loss of power
- A sluggish engine
- An engine that stalls
- An engine that splutters
- Over-consumption of petrol
Can you remove the catalytic converter?
Removal of the catalytic converter is possible, thanks to a tube called an African Tube. However, removing the catalytic converter is strictly prohibited in law.
Furthermore, this removal will categorically lead to failing the Roadworthiness Test on grounds of pollution. Note that a new anti-pollution check made an appearance in January 2019.
Catalytic converter maintenance: de-scaling!
The conventional maintenance of a catalytic converter is an awkward operation. One alternative allowing the cost-effective maintenance of your catalytic converter: de-scaling by hydrogen injection.
Thanks to its innovative process, using the dissolving power of hydrogen after combustion, our cleaning solution allows the removal of carbon present in the catalytic converter.