What is a Three-Way Catalytic Converter?
2 Answers
A three-way catalytic converter is the most important external purification device installed in a vehicle's exhaust system. Related introduction: 1. Overview: The three-way catalytic converter, installed in a vehicle's exhaust system, is the most crucial external purification device. It converts harmful gases such as carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC), and nitrogen oxides (NOx) emitted from vehicle exhaust into harmless carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen through oxidation and reduction reactions. Since this converter can simultaneously transform the three main harmful substances in exhaust gases into harmless substances, it is called a three-way catalytic converter. 2. Function: It transforms harmful gases like carbon monoxide (CO), hydrocarbons (HC), and nitrogen oxides (NOx) emitted from vehicle exhaust into harmless carbon dioxide, water, and nitrogen through oxidation and reduction reactions.
To be honest, I didn't know what a three-way catalytic converter was before, until a mechanic explained it to me. This thing is installed at the front end of the exhaust pipe, looking like a honeycomb-shaped metal canister, specifically designed to purify exhaust gases. It can convert three harmful gases emitted by the engine—carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, and nitrogen oxides—into harmless substances like carbon dioxide and water. To function properly, it must maintain the engine's air-fuel ratio, which is why modern cars are equipped with front and rear oxygen sensors for monitoring. Once, my friend's car had weak acceleration and emitted black smoke, and it turned out the catalytic converter was clogged. This component is particularly vulnerable to leaded gasoline and low-quality engine oil. If damaged, it not only pollutes the environment but also fails the annual inspection.
