What Causes Low Efficiency in a Three-Way Catalytic Converter?
3 Answers
The low efficiency of a three-way catalytic converter may be caused by clogging, and the only solution is to replace it. Below is an introduction to the three-way catalytic converter: 1. Composition: The three-way catalytic converter mainly consists of asbestos fiber felt, purifying agents, a carrier, and metals such as platinum, rhodium, and palladium. Among these, platinum, rhodium, and palladium are the primary catalysts in the converter, effectively reducing nitrogen oxides and particulate matter in the exhaust. 2. Function: The three-way catalytic converter is installed in the vehicle's exhaust system as the most important external purification device. It converts harmful gases such as CO, HC, and NOx emitted from the vehicle's exhaust into harmless carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen through oxidation and reduction reactions.
There are many reasons for low efficiency of the vehicle's catalytic converter, with aging being the primary issue. Having driven several cars, I've seen numerous instances. After a few years of use, the internal ceramic structure of the catalytic converter tends to accumulate carbon deposits, obstructing airflow. This is especially noticeable during short trips when the temperature doesn't reach the optimal operating range, reducing catalytic effectiveness. Additionally, fuel quality is crucial; using low-grade gasoline with excessive impurities can accelerate fouling and aging of the converter. Engine malfunctions can also affect it, such as a faulty oxygen sensor leading to incomplete combustion, overwhelming the converter's capacity. Moreover, if the vehicle's undercarriage is damaged in an accident, causing deformation of the catalytic converter, its efficiency will drop. Regular inspections and maintenance are recommended. During oil changes, have the technician check the exhaust system to identify issues early, potentially saving significant repair costs.
During my last vehicle inspection, I was warned about low catalytic converter efficiency, and upon investigating, I found several pitfalls. Normally, I didn't pay much attention while driving, often making short trips, so the catalytic converter never got properly heated. Regarding fuel, I used to opt for cheaper gas from small stations, which had more impurities and were prone to clogging the converter. Engine issues, such as incorrect air-fuel mixture or incomplete combustion, lead to excessive emissions, putting extra strain on the converter. There's also the issue of lead contamination—while gasoline is unleaded, heavy metals can occasionally linger in air dust or engine oil, damaging the catalytic coating. Sensors are crucial too; a faulty oxygen sensor can lead to inaccurate data. It's advisable to develop good habits: take longer drives to allow the catalytic converter to heat up fully, regularly clean the intake system to prevent carbon buildup, and always opt for reputable repair shops for more reliable service.
